Culture Shock: Harlem Renaissance

In my thirst for cultural knowledge, there is no other time period in which I feel a greater connection than the Harlem Renaissance. From the intellectual awakening, the self-exploring cultural explosion, and the undeniable individuality, there is no doubt that if I had a time machine, I would set it to 1925, and transport myself straight to the infamous Burrough. The character in which this time period represents, just speaks to me.

The Renaissance's life span was roughly 25 years, as it was acknowledged around 1919, and lasted until the mid 1930's. The Renaissance helped break down cultural barriers, which for the 1st time allowed African-Americans to freely express themselves, and people were actually paying attention. Centralized in Harlem, The Renaissance paved way to black expression, and in many ways, celebrated and introduced black culture to the world. During this time, The movement took place figuratively and literally. The Great Migration, which saw blacks moving up north, seeking opportunity, post the abolition of slavery. They migrated to towns like Chicago, Detroit, Milwaukee, Cleveland, Pittsburgh, St. Louis, Philadelphia, and New York, where Harlem emerged as the cultural epicenter.

Due to the amount of new blacks in these areas, the appetite for black culture began to roar. Jazz and Blues music surfaced where stars headlined and sold out popular Harlem night spots like The Cotton Club, The Savoy Ballroom, and The Apollo. Black artists such as Aaron Douglas, Jacob Lawrence, and Augusta Savage, who captured their feelings and emotions on canvasses. Most of all, there was an intellectual influx. Playwrights, poets, authors, scholars, and political activists, had a collective hand in helping redefine the way that blacks perceived the world. Figures such as, Langston Hughes, W.E.B. Dubois, Alain Locke, and Claude McKay, to name a few, all made their respected contributions to this new found perspective.

So as much as I am an "80's baby", I also have a special place in my soul for The Renaissance. My generation was molded by the ideals of this time, So as you reflect on all the different elements that have influenced you and your surroundings, take a moment to pay homage to The Renaissance. Ya Dig.