What could be more of a techie tribute to Black History Month than a YouTube video? Nas used a just-released YouTube video to create an open letter paying homage to black musicians and storytellers. Here is an excerpt:
I was raised to understand that every month was Black History Month. That every day, my ancestors, contemporaries, and everyday dreamers like myself can, shall, and continue to make history.
Our music has been a relentless advocate for our story, which plays a crucial role in the American narrative: Red, white and blues, baby.
I would realize—through the education I received from my parents and my own travels—that Robert Johnson, Louis Armstrong, Sarah Vaughan, and Slick Rick were one in the same. Native storytellers who shined a light on our purpose, preserved our legacy and, without question, rocked the house. The conversation never stops and we all continue to push it steadily along, through our arts n crafts and even within the way we speak. Bumps in the road can’t stop this.
Google is also offering other ways to honor and explore black history via technology:
- The company just added artifacts, artwork, and stories to its extensive online Black History and Culture collection.
- Google kicked off a #CreateBlackHistory video series during which each day of February a black creator will share their thoughts on their favorite black history makers.
- Google Home users and those using Google Assistant on mobile devices can explore black culture by telling the assistant, “Hey Google, share a story about Black history.”
- Listen to specially curated YouTube music lists compiled by black influencers including LeBron James, Bethann Hardison, Veronica Webb, Van Jones, Morgan DeBaun, Mellody Hobson, KJ Miller, and Amanda Johnson.
- Perform a Google search for “Black History Month” for a variety of content from media outlets (including Black Enterprise!) and organizations, such as the NAACP.