As February unfolds, so too does the celebration of Black History Month. It’s a time to reflect on the rich tapestry of African American culture, history, and contributions that have shaped our society. From groundbreaking achievements to resilience in the face of adversity, Black History Month serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing journey towards equality and justice for all.
The origins of Black History Month trace back to the early 20th century when historian Carter G. Woodson and minister Jesse E. Moorland founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History. Their goal was to promote the achievements of African Americans and ensure their contributions were recognized in American history.
In 1926, they initiated Negro History Week, choosing the second week of February to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, two pivotal figures in the fight against slavery. Over time, this week evolved into a month-long celebration officially recognized in 1976 by President Gerald Ford.
As we celebrate Black History Month, it’s essential not only to reflect on the rich heritage and contributions of Black Americans but also to support and uplift the Black community in tangible ways. In Jacksonville and its surrounding areas, there are numerous Black-owned businesses that embody resilience, creativity, and entrepreneurship. From the mouthwatering Southern cuisine of “Soul Food Bistro” to the vibrant cultural hub of “Ritz Theatre and Museum,” these establishments showcase the diversity and vibrancy of Black entrepreneurship. Here are some of our favorite black-owned businesses in our area:
Soul Food Bistro
The Soul Food Bistro was opened by The Potter’s House Christian Fellowship of Jacksonville, FL in 1998 and has two locations in Jacksonville. “The Soul Food Bistro is a fresh and exciting place to be. It has a contemporary flair, but encompasses a welcoming atmosphere. Whatever the occasion, The Soul Food Bistro accomodates with the perfect ambience, boasting rich, warm colors and modern highlights. It is a place where eager diners have the option of enjoying a hearty lunch or a convenient and fulfilling evening meal with great company and even better desserts” (Visit Jacksonville). Their menu consists of a wide variety of protein options, your classic soul food side dishes and all types of cakes and pies. Visit their website https://www.thesoulfoodbistro.com/ for more information and locations!
KraVegan
KraVegan’s menu is a survey of all the things LaTasha Kaiser (Founder & CEO) loves to eat, but adapted to a vegan diet. Although not her primary focus, soul food features prominently on her menu with popular items like meatless ribs, “moxtails,” mac-n-cheese and collard greens. In a way, what she does is a return to the origins of soul food. Their delicious menu is full of plant based goodness and has been voted one of Jacksonville’s best Vegan restaurant. Their food truck and locations can be found at: https://www.kravegan.com/
Jenkins Quality Barbecue
Jenkins Quality Barbecue is a family business serving Jacksonville, FL since 1957! They have 3 convenient locations to serve you and proudly offer you the tastiest ribs, chicken, beef and pork you will ever eat. Finger licking BBQ thats cooked daily on an oak wood-fired pit and topped with our secret savory mustard-based barbecue sauce. It’s served wrapped in butcher paper for a truly unique barbecue experience. When you taste our mouthwatering barbecue, you’ll understand why our customers can’t get enough of Jenkins Quality Barbecue. Simple, Southern and Delicious! Check them out at: https://jenkinsqualitybarbecue.com/
Advanced Hair & Wellness Spa
Discover the harmony of advanced hair care and indulgent pampering at Advanced Hair & Wellness Spa. Here, every treatment is a step toward rejuvenation – of both your luscious locks and your inner confidence. Their holistic approach doesn’t just restore your hair; it transforms your entire well-being, leaving you revitalized and assured. Check out their full list of services at: https://ahcwspa.com/
Sk8City Jacksonville
Sk8 City is a 29,750-square-foot fun zone located in the Arlington/Regency Area at the Regency Court Shopping Center, complete with a 7,000-square-foot Roller Rink, Glow in the Dark Mini Golf, and much more! This veteran-owned business is eager to give back to the community by bringing joy, hope, and inspiration into the lives of children and families. See what else they may have in store at: https://www.skatecityjax.com/
The Lotus Pearl
The Lotus Pearl is a black-owned virtual Yoga Studio. The Lotus Pearl provides mind, body and spiritual wellness support using yoga and meditation practices. Our services include diverse practices of yoga and meditation that range from beginner to advanced levels, and can be tailored to each individual. Check out their wonderful studio at: https://thelotuspearl.com/
Ritz Theatre and Museum
The Ritz Theatre and Museum was constructed in 1999 on the site of the 1929 Ritz Theater movie house in Jacksonville’s historic African American community of La Villa. During La Villa’s height of activity in the 1920s-1960s, it was known as the “Harlem of the South.” The mission of the Ritz Theatre and Museum is connecting communities to the past, present, and future contributions and stories of African American arts and culture in Jacksonville. The Ritz’s vision is to serve as the destination and resource for our community as “The Harlem of The South” by leveraging , educating, empowering, and inspiring current and future leaders. Visit them at https://www.ritzjacksonville.com/ for upcoming events at their theatre and museum!
We believe in fostering a community of empowerment and solidarity. If you’re looking to continue your support for black-owned businesses in the area, we encourage you to explore this curated list of other establishments: https://www.blackjaxconnect.com/. Together, we can make a meaningful impact by uplifting and celebrating diverse voices within our community.
For those seeking literary inspiration, exploring the works of Black authors offers profound insights into the Black experience and beyond. Here is a list of the top books by Black authors, rated by other black authors:
- The Color Purple by Alice Walker
“This is an impossible question to answer, but I’ll say that I’ve been thinking a lot about The Color Purple lately. This is such an iconic text by now, with its film and Broadway adaptations, but I first read this book in junior high and it became almost sacred to me. It’s a story about Black women living in the intersections of racialized and gendered violence, who find liberation through community with each other. This book is brutal and beautiful and holy and secular and I hope we’re reading it forever.” —Brit Bennett - Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi
“Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi is brilliantly written, and deeply researched, but I love it so much because of everything it made me feel. Sorrow, pain, despair, yes, but also understanding, recognition, triumph, joy, and hope. If you haven’t read this book, I’m so excited for you to experience it for the first time.” —Jasmine Guillory - The Prophets by Robert Jones, Jr.
“The Prophets by Robert Jones, Jr. is one of those visceral, raw books that sinks its fangs into you the moment you crack its spine, and won’t let go until you die. The moment I heard about Robert’s debut—a story of love, queerness, Blackness, religion, and power, set on a Deep South plantation during slavery—I knew I had to get my hands on it. Robert’s ability to mold words like an alchemist who changes matter is legendary. The way he cares for his characters without shying away from the truth and the darkness of the antebellum South is a masterclass in writing emotional historical fiction. We are so lucky to exist in the world while Robert Jones, Jr. is creating literature.” —Kosoko Jackson - On Beauty by Zadie Smith
“It’s difficult to pick a favorite, but On Beauty by Zadie Smith is definitely high on the list. It is a close examination of family, marriage, politics, and culture, all done with humor and heart.” —Anissa Gray
List courtesy of Penguin Random House (https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/the-read-down/black-authors-on-their-favorite-books-by-black-authors/)
In conclusion, as Black History Month unfolds, it serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of African American culture, resilience, and contributions throughout history. From its origins in the early 20th century to its evolution into a month-long celebration, Black History Month prompts us to reflect on the struggles and triumphs of the Black community in the ongoing fight for equality and justice. As we honor this month, it’s crucial not only to commemorate the achievements of Black Americans but also to actively support and uplift the Black community in tangible ways. By patronizing Black-owned businesses like Soul Food Bistro, KraVegan, Jenkins Quality Barbecue, and others, and engaging with cultural institutions like the Ritz Theatre and Museum, we can contribute to building a more inclusive and equitable society. Furthermore, by exploring the works of Black authors, such as those recommended by fellow Black writers, we gain deeper insights into the Black experience and enrich our understanding of humanity as a whole. Together, let us continue to celebrate, support, and amplify the voices and contributions of Black individuals and communities, not just during Black History Month but every day of the year