Happy Black History Month! In the first weeks of this current presidency, I know I’m not alone in lamenting how different Black History Month has felt in 2025. The removal and attempted erasure of important dates and months celebrating cultural diversity has been a sinister development to learn of while halfway through February. Despite the removal of Black History Month, Women’s History Month, Native American Heritage Month, and more from Google calendar and official public recognition, we know that these groups will not be silenced. Through reflecting on this attempt of systemic erasure, I was reminded of a book I read last month on three influential Black mothers whose stories have been largely forgotten: The Three Mothers by Anna Malaika Tubbs.
Throughout American history, the story of motherhood has often been overlooked or undervalued, both unintentionally and intentionally by oppressive systems. Moreover, the lives and accomplishments of Black mothers in America frequently occupy even less space in history. It is within the less-told stories of a mothers’ love, support, and drive to do better for her family that I found compelling examples of how to challenge adversity and care for one another in these times.
Most people are familiar with the names and stories of some of the prominent men behind the 1960’s civil rights movement; Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, and James Baldwin. The brave, inspiring, headstrong individuals at the forefront who devoted and ultimately gave their lives for the betterment of Black Americans have inspired generations and forged pathways towards equality. Clearly, these men possessed strong values and a determination to do the right thing, but where might they have developed such characteristics?
Learning about Louise Little’s recalcitrance and unwavering strength, rooted in her African heritage, puts much of Malcolm X’s philosophies into perspective. Standing her ground against a threatening white mob to protect her children created the environment that would shape Malcolm’s steadfast leadership. Similarly, Alberta King’s personal drive toward educating herself and her family is reflected in Dr. King’s own priorities in education and creating opportunities for all. Her kind yet firm demeanor is seen in his ability to lead with both compassion and logic. If you study the works of James Baldwin, it’s clear that his compassion and articulation of the human experience were cultivated by his mother’s resilience and her own talent for composition. She regularly stood up for herself and her children against threats both within and outside her family, teaching him forgiveness and the value of vulnerability.
All these women lived during the time of Jim Crow, the Great Migration, the Civil Rights Movement and many more pivotal moments of history. Such stories of incredible resilience and a mother’s love gave me so much hope and a deeper understanding of the importance of holding true to your values and humanity, especially in the face of hardship and today’s increasingly destructive government.
At a time where words and instructions of discrimination, ignorance, and division from the presidential administration are clouding optimism and hope, I encourage you to pick up The Three Mothers. There is so much more resilience, motivation, joy, and personal triumph to be found in it.
Learning history is a direct act of resistance. These experiences, their wisdom, care, and compassion were beacons of guidance for their families and those around them and continue to be such for us today. Personal stories need to be heard and spread to learn about the strength in individual efforts, in small actions that have reverberating potential for change, and in the remarkable power of love and compassion.
We will not back down in the face of subtle or overt attempts at erasure. History proves the resilience and power of motherhood, community, family bonds, and our collective strength—no matter the challenges. We have thrived through generations of persecution, systemic erasure, and attempts at ethnocide, and we will continue to fight, just as those before us did.
Support Black authors, educators, community members, and mothers. Advocate for historical recognition by learning and sharing these stories. Take time for self and community care.
Happy Black History Month in 2025 and always!
