With Valentine’s Day on Friday, and Black History observed all month, we get a little lost in thought today about the intersection of love and Black history. From the love that sustained families through the horrors of slavery, to the fierce devotion of civil rights leaders who risked everything for justice, love has been the heartbeat of Black history, there’s a certain intertwinedness about the two that went down like a warm cup of tea when writing today’s blog.

The intersectionality of love and Black history is found in the quiet sacrifices of parents who nurtured dreams despite systemic barriers, in the radical self-love that defied oppressive narratives, and in the unity of movements that changed the course of history. Love in Black history is revolutionary—it fuels activism, preserves culture, and strengthens the legacy of those who came before, ensuring that future generations walk in the power of their ancestors’ love.

I imagine that the intersection of love and Black history can take many meaningful forms, both personal and collective.

One way could be to honor Black love stories—whether romantic, familial, or communal—by sharing them through storytelling, books, or film screenings that highlight the richness of Black relationships.

Supporting Black-owned businesses, especially those that prioritize community well-being, is another way to express love in action.

Acts of service, such as mentoring Black youth or donating to organizations that uplift Black communities, also demonstrate love in its most powerful form.

How about hosting discussions, if just around the kitchen table, about historical Black figures who led with love, such as Martin Luther King Jr., Coretta Scott King, or Maya Angelou. These discussoins can inspire new generations to embrace love as a force for change.

Finally, fostering spaces for self-love and healing—through art, music, and wellness practices—ensures that Black history is not just remembered, but lived in a way that uplifts and sustains those who carry its legacy forward.

Here are some cool ways to celebrate the intersection of love and Black history:

Honor Black Love Stories

• Read books like The Love Songs of W.E.B. Du Bois by Honorée Fanonne Jeffers or Salvage the Bones by Jesmyn Ward, which explore deep familial and romantic love.
• Watch films and documentaries that highlight Black love, such as Sylvie’s Love, Love & Basketball, or Black Love (docuseries).
• Share personal or historical Black love stories on social media to amplify narratives of strength, devotion, and unity.

Support Black-Owned Businesses

• Purchase Valentine’s Day gifts from Black-owned brands like The Lip Bar (beauty), Mess in a Bottle (apparel), or McBride Sisters (wine).
• Dine at Black-owned restaurants or cater a meal from a local Black chef for a community gathering.
• Buy books from Black-owned bookstores like Semicolon in Chicago.

Acts of Service & Community Engagement

• Volunteer with organizations that support Black communities, such as The Loveland Foundation (mental health support for Black women and girls) or 100 Black Men of America (mentorship).
• Organize or participate in a donation drive for local Black-led nonprofits. The iCan Dream Center is founded by a Black woman of color and 65 percent of the students served are Black.
• Mentor a Black student or entrepreneur, offering support and guidance in their journey.

Celebrate Historical Black Figures Who Led with Love

• Teach or learn about couples like Malcolm X and Betty Shabazz, who supported each other in the fight for justice.
• Read speeches and writings by leaders like Coretta Scott King, bell hooks (All About Love), or James Baldwin, who explored love’s role in social change.
• Create a classroom or workplace discussion around love as a revolutionary force in Black history.

Foster Self-Love and Healing

• Host a poetry night featuring works from Black poets like Maya Angelou, Langston Hughes, or Amanda Gorman.
• Create a self-care day inspired by Black wellness leaders, incorporating practices like yoga, meditation, and affirmations.
• Listen to music that celebrates Black love, from classics by Marvin Gaye and Aretha Franklin to modern artists like H.E.R. and Daniel Caesar.

These actions not only honor Black history but also celebrate the love that has sustained and empowered Black communities for generations.

Happy Valentine’s Day and Happy Black History Month!