Black History Month: The World's Beloved Toni Morrison

October is Black History Month and throughout the month we hope to share the joy, inspiration and wisdom imparted by Black leaders both past and present. Black History Month was first created in the USA to further recognition of the central role of Black people in the history of the USA. However, we share a collective history. The history of Black people in the USA includes British and European history.

I would first like to highlight a speech given by the iconic Toni Morrison at Wellesley College commencement in 2004. Toni Morrison’s voice is so gentle but her wisdom and perspective cuts through and is as relevant today as it was back then. The footage is a little grainy but I’d recommend watching with a cup of tea, nice and slow.

Toni Morrison’s books are a must read if you havent’ yet begun to touch her works. She brought so much empathy, sensitivity to her complicated characters and simultaneously a joy and vivid narrative that is transformative.

While you’re on YouTube I’d also recommend watching her interviews with Charlie Rose.