Black By Degrees Magazine May 2020 | Page 2

In this issue of Black By Degrees magazine, we present various aspects of Black motherhood. In light of recent news events, we see reflections of Langston Hughes’ description of Black motherhood as “not a crystal stair, full of tacks, splinters and boards torn up.” But, we are also encouraged by the declaration of the mother in Hughes’ Mother to Son poem that she is “still a climbin’, reachin’ and turnin’”. So, while we include a heart­rendering view of what it was like to be a Black mother during slavery, we also share a few chuckles at the all too familiar tv moms we’ve come to know and love. Throw in songs of tribute to mothers by popular musical artists and a remembrances of great Black women in history who were also mothers, we are exposed to a full portrait of what is like to be a Black mom. Also in this issue, we include short essays by mothers who are just ordinary people. We are also excited to introduce a new feature of highlighting Black owned and/or led nonprofits that relate to the theme of the month. Another feature we’re excited about is “A Most Interesting Black” where we’ll honor an African­American person we think deserves special recognition. This month, that person is Toni Stone, the first woman to play in the Negro Leagues. Thank you for taking the time to subscribe to this magazine. Your investment (subscription fee) will go towards helping our African­American college students to be able to afford getting an undergraduate education. We'd love to hear from you. Give us a holla to share your thoughts and opinions or simply to introduce yourself. [email protected] Kevin Morgan - Founder and Lead Editor Annual Subscription Price $9.95 Scholarships