The history of black people in this country has many dark passages, but also innumerable examples of men and women triumphing over the obstacles of racism. Two unforgettable stories of black women who made their mark on history are now available on Netflix:
Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, starring Viola Davis
Based on a play by August Wilson, the movie, set in 1920’s Chicago, also features a stunning performance by Chadwick Boseman and is a 2021 Golden Globe Nominee.
Self-Made: Inspired by the Life of Madam C.J.Walker, starring Octavia Spencer is an original miniseries is based on a true story of a washerwoman turned hair care entrepreneur and America’s first black female millionaire.
And for a more contemporary look at black life on an elite college campus, enjoy the three seasons of Dear White People, also available on Netflix. The series will return for its fourth and final season sometime in 2021.