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It was created for the “Black USA” art exhibition in a museum in Amsterdam in 1990.

This work was made in the context of the inauguration of David Dikings as mayor of New York in 1989, the first African-American mayor of Nex York.

The year following this work, David Hammons received the MacArthur Genius Fellowship for his contributions to African-American cultural identity.

This flag shows the strong presence of the African-American community within the United States. The role of this work of art is to show the importance of the African American community, and thus to show that they are humans like other Americans and that a difference should be made. This work shows that African-American people can be great political icons, and thus it strengthens African-American culture.

This work is a true emblem for African-Americans.

The Green Mile is a heart touching film that delves into the complexities of race, justice, and humanity in the American South during the 1930s. Directed by Frank Darabont and based on Stephen King's novel, the movie follows the lives of death row corrections officers and inmates at a Louisiana penitentiary, particularly focusing on the relationship between a gentle African American man named John Coffey, who possesses miraculous healing abilities, and a caucasian prison guard named Paul Edgecomb.

The Green Mile exposes the deep-rooted racial prejudices prevalent in society at that time. African Americans, like John Coffey, are depicted as vulnerable targets of systemic racism and discrimination, facing segregation and violence despite their inherent goodness.

The film's relevance lies in its exploration of themes such as empathy, compassion, and the dignity of every human being, regardless of race or social status. Through its narrative, The Green Mile challenges viewers to confront their prejudices, creating a sense of review of societal norms and attitudes towards marginalized communities. 

As a work of art, The Green Mile serves as a powerful tool for denouncing inequalities and injustices by humanizing those who are often dehumanized and marginalized. It highlights the capacity of storytelling to foster understanding, empathy, and social change, ultimately advocating for a more just and compassionate society.

The painting measures 30cm x 46cm, created between 1940-1941, this work is part of his " And the migrants kept coming " series, which is composed of 60 paintings depicting the history of the migration of African Americans from the rural South to the urban North during the 1910s and 1920s. This series was first exhibited at New York's Downtown Gallery in 1941, earning Lawrence national recognition. The historical context of this work is therefore the Great Migration. 

The relevance of this work lies in its ability to illustrate the changes in mentality that took place during this period. African Americans began to question their socioeconomic status and look for ways to rise above the oppressive conditions of the South. This work captures this desire for change and the determination to achieve a better future.

Lawrence uses his art to shed light on the difficulties and challenges African Americans faced during the Great Migration. In addition, Lawrence uses his art to celebrate the resilience and determination of African Americans in the face of these challenges. It demonstrates the power of art not only to denounce injustices, but also to inspire change and hope. Thus, " And the migrants kept coming " is a powerful testament to the role of art in shining a light on inequality and injustice, while celebrating human resilience in the face of adversity.

The song delves into the difficulties faced by Black individuals as a result of systemic racism and discrimination. It aligns with a rich tradition in African American music that addresses social issues. Through his lyrical prowess, Tupac's verses serve as a poignant medium through which Black individuals express their struggles and advocate for social justice.

Moreover, "I Wonder If Heaven Got a Ghetto" contributes to a broader cultural narrative, shedding light on the resilience and perseverance of African American communities in the face of adversity. Tupac's poignant reflections resonate deeply within the hearts of listeners, especially those who have experienced similar challenges, making the song a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of Black America.

Historical Context: During the early 1900s, African Americans faced systemic racism, economic hardship, and violence in the Southern United States due to Jim Crow laws and racial segregation. Seeking better opportunities and escape from oppression, millions of African Americans embarked on the Great Migration, relocating to cities like Chicago, New York, and Detroit in search of jobs and freedom from racial discrimination.

Description: Jacob Lawrence's "The Migration Series" captures the essence of this migration experience through vivid, stylized depictions of African American life. Each panel tells a story, portraying scenes of crowded train stations, families packing their belongings, and the challenges migrants faced in their new urban environments. Lawrence's use of bold colors and simplified forms conveys both the hope and struggle of the migration journey.

Relevance and Power of Art: "The Migration Series" is highly relevant in African American art and history because it serves as a powerful tool for denouncing inequalities and injustices. Through his art, Lawrence sheds light on the harsh realities of racial segregation and economic exploitation faced by African Americans in the South. By documenting the Great Migration, he highlights the resilience and determination of African American communities striving for a better future.

Moreover, "The Migration Series" challenges the dominant narratives of American history by centering the experiences of African Americans. It provides a counter-narrative to the whitewashed version of history often presented in textbooks and mainstream media, asserting the importance of African American contributions to the nation's cultural and social fabric.

Overall, "The Migration Series" exemplifies the transformative power of art in shaping public consciousness and promoting social change. By depicting the struggles and triumphs of African American migrants, Lawrence's masterpiece amplifies the voices of marginalized communities and serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing fight for equality and justice.

"Black Parade" is steeped in symbolism and references to African American culture. In the lyrics, Beyoncé references various elements of black culture, such as traditional cuisine, clothing, afro hairstyles, and other aspects of the black heritage. These references serve to celebrate the richness and diversity of black culture, while also emphasizing the importance of pride and self-acceptance.

In addition to its lyrical content, "Black Parade" also had a significant impact on the black cause beyond the realm of music. Beyoncé used the release of the song to promote social and economic initiatives in support of black-owned businesses. She launched the "Black Parade Route" initiative, which aimed to support black-owned businesses by providing them with visibility and encouraging financial support.

Beyoncé's choice to release this song and accompany it with an economic initiative in support of black businesses was seen as an act of solidarity and empowerment for the black community. By highlighting black entrepreneurs and artists, Beyoncé helped raise awareness about the importance of economic and social support for the black community, while using her own platform and influence to promote social change.

In conclusion, "Black Parade" by Beyoncé is much more than just a song; it's an anthem celebrating black culture and a call to action for economic and social empowerment of the black community. Its impact goes far beyond the realm of music, making Beyoncé an iconic figure in the fight for racial justice and equality.

‘Moonlight,' directed by Barry Jenkins in 2016, chronicles the life of its protagonist, Chiron, as he navigates childhood, adolescence, and young adulthood in three distinct stages. Throughout these pivotal chapters, Chiron struggles with issues of identity, love, and self-acceptance, set against the backdrop of the harsh realities faced by queer and black individuals, often intertwined with drug abuse.

The film portrays a poignant narrative of support and self-discovery, as Chiron receives guidance from family, friends, and strangers who recognize aspects of his identity before he does. Despite the challenges posed by societal prejudice and the oppressive environment of 1980s Miami, 'Moonlight' dismantles stereotypes surrounding poverty, race, and sexuality, showcasing the complexity of black life in America.

It also dives into the life of people around Chiron such as his mom Paula, who is one of many women colour victimized by a vicious cycle of racism. As a woman of colour, she is a member of the lowest-paid group in the nation, meaning she earns less than she would if she were a Black man or a white woman. Additionally, she would be treated worse had she identified as LGBTQ. Despite their oppressed position, women are also privileged by their heterosexuality; Chiron is not so lucky. Being Black and having few strong role models makes his life even more difficult. Chiron and his mother also live in a predominantly Black area where drug abuse and incarceration rates are high. Its earliest scenes are set in the 1980s, when the war on drugs was at its most vicious.

Jenkins' film marks another crucial stride in the ongoing effort to present mainstream America with nuanced and humanising portrayals of African-American life. In a nation where economic and, until recently, legal segregation restricts access to diverse perspectives, the images we project onto screens often serve as our primary window into unfamiliar realities. With a sympathetic, but never sanitized work, Barry Jenkins opens a window to the truth of the Black experience in America: that there is no one truth. There is only growth, and individuality.

In a cinematic landscape dominated by white narratives, 'Moonlight' stands out for its unapologetic portrayal of blackness and queerness, offering a refreshing perspective on black lives rarely seen in mainstream media. Through its sensitive portrayal of pain, healing, and resilience, the film elevates the voices and experiences of those too often silenced or overlooked, reaffirming the dignity and humanity of black bodies, including those who identify as LGBTQ. During black history month, this movie is perfect to show the struggles that black queer people faced, and face even today. To also show the importance of solidarity and acceptance.

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"Get Out" received widespread critical acclaim and achieved significant commercial success. It sparked discussions on topics such as racism and racial tensions in the United States. The film won numerous awards and nominations, including the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay for Jordan Peele.

In addition to its critical and commercial success, "Get Out" was praised for its performances, artistic direction, and clever screenplay. The film has become a cultural touchstone and has had a lasting impact on the horror genre and beyond.

The plot of "Get Out" follows the story of Chris Washington, a young black photographer who visits the family of his white girlfriend, Rose Armitage, to meet her parents. Initially, Chris is concerned about being the only black man in an affluent white community, but Rose assures him that her parents are not racist.

However, upon his arrival, Chris begins to notice strange behaviors and inappropriate comments from family members and their friends. During his stay, Chris befriends a black man, Logan King, who seems to be in an altered mental state and behaves very strangely.

As the strange events escalate, Chris begins to investigate what is really happening in this seemingly perfect community. He eventually discovers that the Armitage family practices an extreme form of hypnosis to transfer the consciousness of elderly white people into the bodies of young black individuals, with the aim of prolonging their own lives. Chris finds himself trapped in a diabolical plot and must fight to escape the community before it's too late.

The film explores complex themes such as racism, cultural appropriation, and social prejudices, while delivering an intense and unsettling horror movie experience.

This painting has been created shortly after the brutal lynching of 14-year-old Emmett Till in 1955 in Mississippi, USA. Till was accused of whistling at a white woman, leading to his abduction, torture, and murder by two white men. Moreover, Emmett Till's mother insisted on an open coffin during his funeral, exposing to the world the mutilated body of his son.

Driskell immediately understood the impact of this tragedy. He painted "Behold Thy Son" in 1956 because he wanted a symbol for the Black community to rise against injustice and racial violence. For that, he used his story. Born on June 7, 1931, in Eatonton, Georgia, David C. Driskell grew up in the Southern United States in an African American family. He attended Howard University in Washington, D.C., graduating with a degree in arts in 1955. Driskell's first years were shaped by the harsh realities of racial segregation, and "Behold Thy Son" stands as one of his early works reflecting those experiences, marking the beginning of his artistic career.

It presents a powerful and moving scene. The painting draws on religious iconography, recalling the crucifixion of Christ. However, the central figure is not Christ but the young Emmett Till, symbolizing the unjust sacrifice of innocent individuals, and his body is painting mutilated. Behind him stands a sad woman, dressed in a white veil, embracing him – his mother. In the foreground, black figures are depicted with poignant expressiveness, capturing the distress and struggle against racial violence. The dark and vibrant colors evoke an emotionally charged atmosphere. Lastly, on his right, there is an altar and a religious candlestick, emphasizing the role of religion in the Black community.

Driskell painted this work with a simple purpose: to ignite the Black community, prompting them to stand up for their rights. The global dissemination of his artwork showed the violence against black people and succeeded in changing a huge number of perspectives.

by Romain de Saint-Seine

The film is set against the backdrop of racial tensions in the United States, recalling the many cases of police brutality against black people that have marked the country's history, such as the cases of Trayvon Martin, Michael Brown and Eric Garner. These events catalyzed protest movements such as Black Lives Matter.

"The Hate U Give" is relevant because it offers an intimate perspective on the realities experienced by many African-Americans. By highlighting racial prejudice, social inequality and the devastating consequences of police violence, the film encourages reflection on stereotypes and persistent discrimination in American society.

Art has always been a powerful means of denouncing inequality and injustice, which is why director George Tillman Jr. is committed to giving a voice to marginalized communities and raising awareness of the challenges they face. Through his work, he seeks to inspire empathy and promote dialogue around issues of social justice and civil rights.

In short, "The Hate U Give" follows in the tradition of African-American art, addressing profound themes of identity, social justice and resistance. Through this cinematic work, George Tillman Jr. offers a poignant critique of contemporary society while inspiring positive change and reminding us of the importance of solidarity and the struggle for equality.

This documentary follows Clarence Avant, a determined mentor and «true magician» working behind the scenes in music, film, television and politics. Reginald Hudlin's documentary was nominated for an Emmy for Best Original Score and Best Original Lyrics.

Clarence Avant, born in North Carolina in 1931, he moved to New Jersey as a teenager and began working in the music business in the 1950s, when   he took over the management of a Newark club, Teddy P's Lounge.

The nickname "Black Godfather", proudly borne by Quincy Jones, says a lot about the life and career of Clarence Avant, a major figure in the music industry from the 1960s to the 2000s and a charismatic figure in the African-American community.

He is told as «the original influencer». The trailer show a lot of Afro-American personalities like Barack Obama,  Snoop Dogg who speak about him and the ways he influenced Afro-American history. He did all of this during the period when black people claimed their rights and demonstrate in the street.

Everybody said that his influence is one of the most important in the black people history by his music but also all his influence in politic.

For 40 years, he has dedicated himself to creating opportunities for African-Americans in the music industry and in politics.

 The film praises one of the most influencial people in this period and also to remember him, in this way people can know his history or remember it. So the message is a bit global because it's not a precise moment or idea in Afro-American history but it comemores the man he was and what he did for black people.

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At the heart of the story is Martin Luther King Jr., brilliantly portrayed by David Oyelowo, who leads efforts to organize a peaceful march from Selma to Montgomery to protest systemic discrimination and barriers to black voter registration. Despite constitutional guarantees, many African Americans were prevented from voting through tactics such as discriminatory literacy tests and unfair voting rights.

The film explores the challenges and sacrifices faced by King and his supporters, as well as the violent resistance from local authorities and racist groups. The tragic event of "Bloody Sunday," where peaceful protesters were brutally attacked by police on the Edmund Pettus Bridge, is depicted poignantly, underscoring the cruelty of repression and the determination of the civil rights movement to overcome such adversity.

"Selma" also provides insight into King's personal struggles, including family pressures and internal doubts about the best strategy to pursue. However, the film also celebrates the power of solidarity, resilience, and nonviolence in the struggle for racial justice.

Ultimately, "Selma" is much more than a mere historical narrative. It is a call to action and reflection, highlighting the ongoing importance of the fight for equality and justice in a society still marked by racism and injustice.

This is accompanied by a clip.

With “Formation”, Beyoncé releases an openly committed track where she denounces systemic violence against the black American community. Her clip abounds with references to the fight against racism: the front page of a newspaper featuring Martin Luther King, the choreography in which she raises her fist in tribute to athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos, suspended for having made the same gesture during the 1968 Olympic Games on the podium. Or even an indictment of police violence inflicted on African Americans. The clip is filled with references and symbols to African-American culture. Speaking out against the physical stigmatization of black bodies (she mentions Afro hairstyles or even her nose, sometimes mocked in racist jokes), Beyoncé composes an anthem for affirmation and the refusal of self-shame. But “Formation” is above all a declaration of love to his family heritage in the South of the United States. “Formation” advocates the unity of the black American population in the face of the systemic violence of which they are victims. A speech committed in the wake of the Black Lives Matter movement which caused a lively controversy when the title was released, but which contributed to the revolutionary aspect of the title.

."Formation" is the most searched song of the year on Google. Proof of its immediate impact on the general public. In addition, “Formation” won several awards including the Grammy Award for best video clip. Beyoncé is an international star who has a huge influence on the world. With her title “Formation” the singer was able to reach not only the African-American community but also the “whites” who were able to rally in the fight against racial inequalities in the United States.

“Formation” is a perfect example of the fight against racism and inequalities still present in the 21st century. Continuing the fight of Martin Luther King JR and Malcolm X, “Formation” is a modern way of denouncing the hatred and racism still present against the African-American community in the United States.

During this time, African Americans faced widespread discrimination and oppression, yet music and art provided avenues for cultural expression and resistance. "The Banjo Lesson" challenges stereotypes by portraying the dignity and humanity of its subjects. By showcasing the importance of preserving cultural traditions and passing them down through generations, the painting confronts societal prejudices and highlights the resilience of the African American community.

In the story, an old man (old Tim) gives his banjo, his only valuable possession, to the boy (little Tim) as a Christmas present, and the compromise was that they would share it. “The only thing in the world that the old man considered a personal possession was his old banjo. It was the only thing the little boy counted on as a precious possession

Tanner's work serves as a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of African Americans in the face of injustice, while also challenging viewers to reconsider their perceptions and biases.

First of all on this painting, we see the colours that he uses. Bright blue, yellow, red and green. It is giving happiness to his art which is in opposition with the message that convey this piece of art. We can see soldiers at the top of the work, carrying guns. Below, we observe black students, and white students doing a manifestion in front of a school.

The canvas unites fear and indignation. Indeed, the phase of the end of segregation in United States was very complicated for black people. Jacob Lawrence makes a point of honour of representing the impact of the segregation in black people’s life.

Moreover, the scene reminds us of « The Little Rock Nine », a group of black students in Arkansas, 1957, un an all-white high school. It reminds us that it was the reality for black people in this time and that we should never let that happen again.

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The title of the text by James Baldwin as well as the film by Raoul Peck is clearly addressed to whites (or to certain whites) and must be understood as: "I am not your negro", I am not your slave, I do not am not a referred inferior being. by the contemptuous term “negro”.

This title therefore has a broader scope than the question of civil rights in the southern states of the United States and targets all racial relations in this country (and perhaps even elsewhere). And we can say that the film speaks as much about whites as it does about blacks, that it analyzes the point of view of whites as much as that of blacks.Raoul Peck's documentary is built around a text by James Baldwin read in voice-over. It is illustrated with images, photos, films, videos from different sources: it is undoubtedly the diversity of these illustrations which is most remarkable. We thus return to one of the essential aspects of the film's subject, namely the American imagination, that is to say all of these mental images forged in particular by Hollywood cinema with which American citizens are imbued.

It tells the story of a young lawyer, Bryan Stevenson, who dedicates his life to helping poor innocent people, who are falsely accused and judged, but who are dedicated to the tragic fate of "death row". After days, weeks and months of research, Bryan Stevenson found the exact evidence of his clients' inocence, but much of it had to do with lies and destruction on the part of police officers, and the annulment and delay of trials by judges unwilling to reconsider the case.

"it is clear that this trial is built on lies" of Bryan Stevenson.

He experienced enormous setbacks, but never gave up, enabling him to save one of his clients, Walter McMillier. Showing the world his inocence and at the same time proving the incompetence of the judiciary, judging only by discrimination and the sense of superiority they have acquired. Bryan Stevenson had saved an inocent who had lost all hope, an inocent who had been reunited with his family and loved ones. This lawyer was a hero to many.

The film makes us feel empathy and compassion, but above all a sense of unease towards white people. They have taken the liberty of judging innocent people without scruples, without regret, out of discrimination and a sense of superiority.Destin Daniel Cretton has made a film to change people's minds. While showing the suffering caused and experienced by simple inocents, simply because of their skin color. So much judgment, discrimination and racism are exploited in this film to show what real people have experienced throughout their lives. Repetitive harassment. He simply wants to change the mentality of today's society.

Nezondet Ines.

He died a year later, in December 1964, shot three times at the Hacienda Motel in Los Angeles. It was only after his death that his song became a single. It was then taken up by Otis Redding in 1965, cited by Barack Obama during his inauguration in 2008 in Chicago and then sung by Angélique Kidjo during the Women's March after Donald Trump's victory.

 Its chorus often accompanied Martin Luther King during civil rights marches and could still be heard on the sunny boulevards of Harlem on the day Barack Obama was elected. The first black president of the United States even repeated a few words from it during his victorious speech in Chicago. (“It’s been a long time coming/but change has come to America”). A change is going to come, in the heart of the 1960s, the anthem of the struggle of black Americans.

This music released on March 1 in an album 1964, released as a single on December 22, 1964 was recorded on December 21, 1963 in the RCA studios in Los Angeles. it lasts a total of 3:10 in soul genre, sam cooke was able to touch the spirits in the fight which denounces racism and segregation

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Hammon's work evokes the violence suffered by the first black American students in white schools in the United States. If the end of school segregation was central to the process of recognition of civil rights, it led to a violent response from white and racist America. In some cases, white students and adults prevented black students from entering by blocking doorways. It is this very incident that Hammons captures in his powerful work. It allows us to remember the traumas and struggles that black students experienced during the civil rights era.

Bouchier Justine

Stevie Wonder is a singer of funk, rhythm and blues, soul, pop.… And he will spend his life mixing music and political activism.

Published as a single in 1973, it reached 8th place in the Hot 100 of the musical magazine Billboard and was included in the album Innervisions under the label Motown.

Living for the city is about a boy who was born and raised in a difficult neighbourhood in Mississippi. His parents work hard but barely earn enough to survive. He has brothers and sisters who also struggle, and they are discriminated against because of their skin colour.

Injustices and inequalities in the city are criticized and called to change through song. The lyrics of the song describe the harsh realities faced by the city’s inhabitants, especially in the era of civil rights activists. This song is considered a hymn for marginalized communities.

But the song also captures the aspirations and assertions of the young activists of the freedom struggle, nodding to the black-is-beautiful movement, the familial dedication to education, and the insistent demand for economic opportunity

Finally, in 1980 the song « Happy Birthday » from the album ( Hotter Than July ) campaigned for the institution of a national holiday in memory of reverend Martin Luther King. Stevie Wonder’s determination paid off in 1986 when Ronald Reagan introduced into US law the third Monday of January as a

holiday in memory of Martin Luther King.

In the whole painting, we see two people, one old man and possibly his grand son. Both of their faces are filled with depression, megrims and dejection. It seems the grand father is praying (almost begging) over soething like a religious person despite not seeing any symbole on him. Even though they are sitting in a table,

there is almost no food in the plates representing their poverty.

Most of the people thought of this painting as a religious painting however it was proven wrong. The praying position of the grandfather is more of a depiction or a common ritual of poverty through a reallistic scene. We can consider it as an important part of African American Art.

When the painting was first published, it was well rated but was critisized because of this very reason (the religious part) and didn't get the same welcome as "The Banjo Lesson" in Paris in 1894. It was also suprisingly his last art even though most his friends are colored people but it is expected that he wanted to take a break after those critics but still marked the history of art.

Made By Riyad KHELLADI 1GA