Black tradition is throughout us — from the music we love and the developments we observe to the tech we use. And because the future unfolds, we’re seeing firsthand how the daring concepts and transformative creations of Black founders, creatives and leaders throughout society are accelerating the advantages of AI and bettering product illustration.
That’s why Google’s Black Googler Community (BGN) — which I’m honored to assist lead — selected the theme “Afrofuturism” for our 2024 Black Historical past Month theme. Afrofuturism, a motion merging science fiction, historical past and African diaspora tradition, has transcended the pages of books and the screens of cinemas. In my function as one of many world leads for BGN, I’ve had the privilege of assembly Googlers from all backgrounds who embody the spirit of Afrofuturism and who’re constructing the merchandise and options to assist make that future one we are able to all be pleased with.
As Google celebrates Black Historical past Month in Canada, the US and Germany and continues to help the Black group all 12 months spherical, listed here are three highlights that I am significantly enthusiastic about:
Celebrating Black tradition via our merchandise
On February 1, the Google homepage honors the late James Baldwin, American author and civil rights activist, via an inspiring Google Doodle created by visitor artist Jon Key. Google Play can be highlighting inspiring and progressive Black creators within the Black Historical past Month hub which is able to function a curated choice of apps, video games and books. Google TV will function a “Black Genius” assortment of flicks and reveals in a wide range of themes: Afrofuturism, real-life tales of Black innovation & power, the following era of Black genius, and free Dwell TV centered on Black-centric content material. You’ll additionally discover content material in Google TV’s Featured Carousel with a “Black Genius” tag all month.
Google Arts & Tradition additionally added new tales and constructed a brand new chapter celebrating the performing arts to its Black Historical past and Tradition hub. The hub now spotlights new partnerships with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, the Massachusetts Hip Hop Archive, and options new collaborations with current companions from many different museums and archives. YouTube invitations customers to discover its Highlight Channel, the place they’ll uncover content material from creators throughout Gaming, Vogue & Magnificence, Way of life and extra.
And further particular for me this 12 months, BGN members Asya Brown, Na’kia Channey and Dieu Buhendwa partnered with Google Meet to create its newest digital background, celebrating Black tradition and artwork. This background showcases gadgets of vital historic and cultural significance, reminding us of the wealthy lineage of Black tradition.
