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Why Black Empowerment Should Never Ride the Wave of White Guilt
This article explores why Black identity, strength, and progress should never be tied to white guilt. True empowerment is rooted in legacy, self-respect, and forward vision—not pity, performance, or politics. We need pride, not permission.
Why Forever on Netflix Feels Like a Milestone for Young Black Love Stories
Netflix’s Forever, created by Mara Brock Akil, is more than a teen drama—it’s a necessary portrayal of young Black love and family life, free from the usual traumas. With intact families, divine masculinity, and vulnerability, it delivers something both refreshing and overdue: a story where Black beauty, love, and communication take center stage. It's not perfect—but it's powerful.
A Dutiful Boy by Mohsin Zaidi: A Memoir of Identity, Faith, and Courage
Explore Mohsin Zaidi’s moving memoir A Dutiful Boy, which chronicles his journey of growing up gay in a conservative Muslim home. A raw and emotional narrative of resilience, love, and liberation.
Must-Read or Else: 9 Black Authors to Discover This July
Discover 9 must-read Black authors this July 2025—from thrilling debuts to sharp social satire and unforgettable love stories. New voices, fresh classics.
Les hétéros aiment-ils vraiment les femmes ?
Une réflexion sur les affects masculins dans le patriarcat : pourquoi tant d’hommes hétéros peinent à aimer les femmes en dehors de toute utilité ?
How to rewrite history, his name was Bélizaire
Was Bélizaire just an enslaved child—or was he family? This in-depth article explores how a restored portrait challenges our understanding of race, kinship, and memory in American history.
Vagabonds by Eloghosa Osunde – A Love Letter Review
An emotional, poetic review of Vagabonds! by Eloghosa Osunde. Orlyna Ekila explores magic, identity, and wonder in this unforgettable literary journey.
Days in Morisaki Bookshop by Satoshi Yagisawa – A Soulful Journey of Self-Discovery and Literature
Discover why Days in Morisaki Bookshop by Satoshi Yagisawa is a soulful, uplifting read about finding peace and purpose through books, identity, and human connection.
Must-Read by Black Authors in June 2025
Explore the latest issue of The Reading List, spotlighting 10 fresh and essential reads by Black authors. From gripping thrillers to transformative essays and poetic memoirs, this curated selection inspires conversation and reflection.
Black Dandyism: Fashion's Complex Relationship with Black Culture and Capital
We examine Black dandyism and Vogue's history of using Black culture for capital gain. Delve into the ways fashion has commodified Black style without true support for Black creatives. Join the conversation.
Review: Sinners by Ryan Coogler Is a Masterclass in Black History, Music, and Memory
Ryan Coogler’s Sinners is a stirring excavation of Black history, music, and love. A film that resists erasure and centers deep cultural memory.
Survival of the Thickest – Season 2: A Disappointing Return
In this review of Survival of the Thickest Season 2, we explore how the show mishandles representation, featuring a deeper look at Khalil’s storyline and the commodification of Black art. Is it progress or just performance?