Hi Friend,

As Black History Month comes to a close, we remain committed to reflecting on the stories, struggles, and triumphs that shape our collective history. This February, we explored the origins of Black History Month through the work of Carter G. Woodson and examined resistance as a “labor of love” in honor of Valentine’s Day. Now, as we transition into the next chapter of our learning, we are excited to introduce the theme for 2025. 

The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) has declared “African Americans and Labor” as this year’s theme for Black History Month. The focus on labor honors the 100-year anniversary of the creation of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters and Maids—the first Black union to receive a charter in the American Federation of Labor. It calls us to examine the history of Black labor organizing, the economic structures that have shaped Black life, and the radical traditions of worker resistance. 

We are called to examine the history of Black labor organizing, the economic structures that have shaped Black life, and the radical traditions of worker resistance. 

To deepen our engagement with this theme, we are proud to offer the syllabus "Black Labor & Resistance: Rethinking Work and Activism in U.S. History” as a parting gift. This 14-week course challenges dominant labor histories, moving beyond rigid binaries to center Black workers’ ingenuity, resistance, and solidarity across generations. Featuring an interdisciplinary collection of academic texts, films, music, and thought-provoking discussion questions, it encourages us to rethink what constitutes “real” labor and legitimate labor movements, and how activism has manifested in both visible and clandestine ways. 

We hope this syllabus serves as a resource for reflection, study, and action in the year ahead. And please feel free to reach out to me directly at [email protected] if you need assistance accessing any paywalled content. 

URGE: Unite for Reproductive & Gender Equity
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