I want to learn more about black culture and history, but don’t know where to start.

[u/RoseDaOmelette]

Hello, I am an 18 year old white transfem Texan, though I don’t know if that matters much. I have grown up in a place where most people are bigots, and because of this I don’t have much education on black history and culture. Of course I learned about some things in school, but it was mostly regarding slavery in america and a lot of it was grossly romanticized. I just want to learn. There are some specific things I’m curious about, such as the cultural significance of hair, foods, and stuff of the sort, but there’s still so much I don’t even know I want to learn yet, if that makes sense. I would greatly appreciate any sources, advice, or even if you wanted to suggest things to look up and research. Anything is helpful and appreciated.

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[u/Dx-Human_NOS]

https://www.reddit.com/r/socialjustice101/s/rqyvKzrbjP

There are many good recommendations here. Honestly, with love, I'd recommend searching basic stuff like "books to read to understand black culture" and seeing whats already out there and reading all that before bringing basic questions to subreddits like this. You're not the first person to ask this question, which means you can find a lot of great stuff by turning to old posts first!

[u/RoseDaOmelette → u/Dx-Human_NOS]

Thank you for the tips, I will do so!

[u/ajwalker430]

You want to learn about Black culture and of the top of your head main questions are about hair and food? 🙄

[u/RoseDaOmelette → u/ajwalker430]

Why look for a fight? These are things I’m curious about because they fascinate me. Instead of being hostile, I would appreciate other parts of the culture I could learn about as well if you have any.

[u/ajwalker430 → u/RoseDaOmelette]

Because this sub is filled with these low level requests all the time. It's practically impossible to take people seriously when this is their first initial introduction 🤷🏾‍♂️

Of all the more substantial things to start a conversation with, you throw out hair? 🤔

[u/RoseDaOmelette → u/ajwalker430]

That still isn’t any reason for hostility. I ask because it’s a big focus in a lot of media. I understand it may be a common ask, but that doesn’t make it an invalid thing to learn about. If you don’t have anything positive to add to this post that was made out of curiosity and good intent, please go take the bad vibes somewhere else.

[u/Creepy_Meringue3014]

Go in person to your public library. speak with the librarian and ask them. the best thing anyone can do when they want to know about any subject is that.
if There is a university near you with an Afro studies dept or degree, reach out and ask for the curriculum. OR go online and look for the same at any university around the country. Look at the coursebooks and start there.

please stop asking regular people on the street and internet for an education.

[u/RoseDaOmelette → u/Creepy_Meringue3014]

I’m asking for first hand experience and knowledge. Yes, the library sounds like a great idea. Thanks for the input.

[u/Creepy_Meringue3014 → u/RoseDaOmelette]

then watch a documentary.

[u/RoseDaOmelette → u/Creepy_Meringue3014]

I will. These are the things I’m asking for. I don’t understand why a question on a sub called “AskBlackPeople” is being treated like I said something offensive. I’m looking for knowledge. For resources. For advice.