Celebrating Black Power in Trexler Library

Trexler Library is celebrating Black History Month with its “Black Power Through History” exhibit. Every year, the Association of the Study of African American Life and History selects a theme for Black History Month, of which this year’s is “Black Resistance.” This theme creates a spotlight for the many voices throughout history that have resisted discrimination, fought to dismantle oppressive systems, and challenged corrupt authorities. 

The Black Panther Party for Self-Defense, founded by Huey P. Newton and Bobby Seale, arose as a result of abuse at the hands of police and white supremacists. Working in tandem with them, the Black Power Movement emphasized self-empowerment, racial pride, and economic independence. These movements supported their local communities through food drives, clothing donations, school sponsorships, and social reforms during much of the 1960s and 1970s.

Today, Black Lives Matter and similar organizations still fight for changes in unjust political, socioeconomic, and government systems. Protests enable many around the country to raise their voices in response to the epidemic of police brutality and the deaths of African Americans, such as Trayvon Martin, Breonna Taylor, and George Floyd. 

Trexler Library has provided countless resources and materials, both online and in-person, to encourage continual education and advocacy of social changes within communities of color. You can find our Black History Month resource guide on our website or visit our mobile-friendly link. 

Also, check out our Must-Reads for Black History Month display from prominent authors such as Toni Morrison, Trevor Noah, Michele Obama, and more!