Thanksgiving is usually a time of togetherness. Dad, Grandpas, and Uncles screaming at the TV as his team misses another touchdown. Mama, Grandmas, and Aunties chastising the kids for nibbling on the sides. All the kids – oldest to youngest – teaching each other the latest TikTok dances and posting filtered selfies on the Gram. But this year’s circumstances eliminated any possible cheek-pinching and sloppy kisses from the fam.
This doesn’t mean people are tossing aside turkey (or chicken) and all those wonderful side dishes. Having a small circle of (COVID-free) friends or immediate family over is still a slim possibility with social distancing and Zoom.
This year, you can tap into the Black experience by being appreciative of outstanding Black media of all shapes and sizes. With that said, I decided to highlight some outlets keeping us informed and entertained on Turkey Day.
Black News Organizations and Publications
These publications and websites provide news and views without all the shade (maybe only in small doses).
Blavity – grabs you all things Black media-related from news to beauty to tech
Mogul Millennial – supplies Black entrepreneurs with news, views, and resources
The Grio – gives you news of the day through the lens of Black America
Atlanta Black Star – gives daily news for Black America across different platforms
Rolling Out – speaks on Black news and culture with a Hip Hop slant
CRWNMAG – taps into the Black lifestyle and hair culture
Watch the Yard – speaks to the HBCU culture and experience
Essence – gives a voice to Black women across all lifestyles and perspectives
For more Black voices still in traditional print, here is a directory of different Black publications nationwide. For anyone looking to break into publication, here is news of a new fund supporting Black writers and journalists.
Black Podcasts
These podcasts are just as diverse as the diaspora itself.
Black Men Can’t Jump [in Hollywood]
For more Black voices in the podcasting space, here is a list of podcasts covering all the different facets of Black culture.
Black Film and TV Platforms
These platforms provide much-needed outlets for Black creatives.
UMC (Urban Movie Channel)
Blacktag
While eating your dinner this Thanksgiving, why not watch, read, and listen to some of these Black media outlets.