Photo Archive of African American Celebrations and Milestones, 1970s-90s
Photo Archive
Black Joy Photo archive of 77 vernacular photos of African Americans celebrating weddings, graduations, birthdays and other special occasions. C. 1970s-90s. Archive includes several separate series highlighting individual family events. In one such series, an older woman in party dress unwraps gifts, possibly for a housewarming. In another series a bride walks down the aisle, led by her father, beaming at the groom waiting just off-camera. Bridesmaids gather in eighties pink and an older woman in a floor-length sequined floral gown sits with her hands crossed on her lap, watching the festivities from the sidelines. Measurements range between 7" x 5" and 4.5" x 3.5" in. In one photo a little girl with beaded braids stands over a colorfully iced birthday cake, grinning down at the generous slice she's carefully cutting. In another a tall man in tinted seventies glasses and doctoral graduation cap and gown stands with one hand across his chest, his posture and expression impressive. In one image couples hold each other on a dance floor, smiling happily toward the camera. Black joy is a phrase used by historians to highlight the positive aspects of Black history separate from its suffering. Representations of African Americans living lives at once ordinary and inspired, both deeply personal and universal, is an integral piece of any American history archive. "Expressions and acts of black joy are often encouraged as a way for Black people to fully be themselves and form a sense of community as a response to systems that devalue them and stifle their self-expression. In this way, engaging in and sharing experiences of Black joy are seen not as ways of ignoring oppression but as acts of resistance against it." (dictionary) This archive serves as both an alternative history and a testament to Black celebration no matter the struggle. An important assemblage toward more complete historical preservation.Item #18039
Price: $385.00
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