Black Love Day 2024: February 13 is designated as Black Love Day every year. The purpose of the day is to show black people’s love, forgiveness, and acceptance of one another. Ayo Handy-Kendi, the founder of the African American Holiday Association, got the idea to start the holiday in 1993 after watching a movie in which other black people killed a black man. She made the decision to start the day, which has since grown to include people of various races, to advocate for peace and speak out against violence.
The Black Love Day History
Ayo Handy-Kendi, also referred to as “Mama Ayo,” is a writer, pathologist, and the creator of the African American Holiday Association (AAHA). She established Black Love Day in 1993. Handy-Kendi was deeply affected by the tragedy when she witnessed Malcolm X being gunned down by other Black people in January 1993.
On her way home, she was sitting alone on a bus when her mind started to wander over what she might do to put an end to the bloodshed and promote peace. Handy-Kendi recalled that occasion by saying, “I heard the creator say to me that we need more black love.” This inspired her to observe Black Love Day that particular year in February. The year after, she commemorated the day once more after losing her son to violence.
In an interview with “The Daily Dot,” Handy-Kendi described the festivities for the day. “We encourage people to do something very simple on this day—just demonstrate love for 24 hours, celebrate and atone, offer forgiveness to ourselves and others, and accept the very important tenets — what we call the five black love tenets,” the speaker stated. Additionally, it is recommended that people greet one another with the word “Nya Akoma,” which translates to “get a heart” or “be patient.”
By Handy-Kendi’s significant other’s request, the celebrations have now extended to include white individuals to “show love in action on Black Love Day.” For both blacks and whites to mend broken relationships and find love again, inclusion was necessary. The white people were forced to consider their racial attitudes and white privilege as a result. Black Love Day has gained popularity as a hashtag on social media these days, which has helped to raise awareness of the holiday.
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Observing Black Love Day: A Guide
Give some affection.
Regardless of race—Brown, White, Asian, Hispanic, or Indian—we must all be kind to one another. On this day, celebrate by putting love into action.
Commit to eradicating racism
It is unacceptable to treat someone differently because of their race or skin tone. Commit to upholding equality, justice, and compassion for all.
Join the trend
On This Day, people often use the hashtag #Blackloveday to raise awareness and share information. Join the trend by utilizing the hashtag in addition to sending out a personalized message of your own.
5 Facts About Black Love Day
- Love the Lord is the foundation of creation.
- It has to do with loving oneself.
- It has to do with loving your family.
- It is about loving the black community and those inside it.
- Love for the Black Race is the theme.
Why Black Love Day Is Significant
It shares love.
In our society, love and peace must be encouraged. The message of love is required now more than ever because there are increasing reports of xenophobia and segregation in various regions of the world.
It rejects racism.
People of all races should unite on this day to oppose racism. It’s time to combat institutional racism against Black people, which has been going on for decades, by promoting tolerance, love, and inclusivity.
It opposes violence.
The day provides an opportunity to preach against all sorts of violence. Violence is a threat that shatters harmony and encourages negative behavior. On Black Love Day, let’s show our unity and demand an end to violence.
BLACK LOVE DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | February 13 | Tuesday |
| 2025 | February 13 | Thursday |
| 2026 | February 13 | Friday |
| 2027 | February 13 | Saturday |
| 2028 | February 13 | Sunday |
