BLACK AUGUST IN AMERICA
- Vivian Phillips
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Since 1979, August has been observed as Black August, a time of reflection, resistance, and recommitment to the struggle for Black liberation. Originating within California’s prison system, Black August honors the lives and sacrifices of Black freedom fighters, while also marking key moments in the global fight for Black liberation—such as the Watts Uprising of 1965 and the Haitian Revolution of 1791. This annual observance calls for political education, self-discipline, and a renewed commitment to justice and community. It is a time to carry forward the memory of those lost to the fight against racism, inequality, and state oppression.
The fact that Black August began inside prison walls may raise questions. But in 2025, with the rollback of civil rights protections, increased policing, attacks on democratic representation, and defunding of social safety nets, the relevance of this history is clear. Efforts to suppress education, freedom, and mobility for Black communities persist—making Black August as necessary as ever.
In his 2015 article Two Nations, One Black, One White, Separate and Unequal, Randall G. Shelden describes a legacy of segregated neighborhoods, failing schools, over-policing, and mass incarceration that continues to define the Black experience in America:
“Throw into the mix a history of police serving as an ‘army of occupation’ as if the neighborhoods were ‘internal colonies’... and you get the results we’ve seen. We reap what we sow.”
Ten years later, the systems that created these conditions are still in place—and in many cases, even stronger.
For a deeper historical perspective on Black August, read the work of Felicia Smith from Stanford University, who explores the roots and ongoing significance of this powerful movement. [Read here.]
AUGUST IS ALSO BLACK PHILANTHROPY MONTH
Dr. Jacqueline “Bouvier” Copeland is the founder of Black Philanthropy Month, a 24-year-old initiative aimed at promoting giving and funding equity worldwide. Black Philanthropy Month has engaged over 100 million people in 60 nations and is still growing.
To tap into Black Philanthropy Month, we recommend checking out the BCKBLK movement to volunteer or make a donation. Based in Seattle, The Black Future CoOp Fund works year-round to ignite generational wealth, health, and well-being for Black Washingtonians through Black community-led philanthropy.
Be a revolutionary, be a revolutionary giver, or awaken the revolution inside by exploring Black August!
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