Black History Month 2025: The impact of Black culture and creatives on America

Heritage, history, culture, activism, and community are just a few words describing Black History Month’s significance. This celebration honors Black leaders, teachers, and artists, paying tribute to their tireless sacrifices in creating a space for future generations to thrive. This article will explore how Black culture influences multiple industries, including fashion, art, design, and music. But, before we dive into Black influence on American culture, let’s explore how Black History Month came about.

Black History Month takes place in February in the US. It began in February 1926, initiated by scholar Dr. Carter G. Woodson. Initially called Negro History Week, the purpose was to reflect on the past achievements of Black Americans and inspire them to pursue even more significant accomplishments. Have you ever wondered why Black History Month is in February? This month was believed to be chosen because it’s the birth month of two figures who played a key role in Black history: Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass.

During Black History Month, many Black artists and designers across the globe showcase their talents using a variety of media. Major companies and corporations are joining forces to be part of this significant celebration. An example is Apple’s Black Unity Collection, which features bands designed by African American artists and allies at Apple. Apple says this band is “inspired by the rich cultural diversity of Black communities worldwide.” These bands showcase the colors of the Pan-African flag: black, yellow, green, and red. One of the bands in the collection is the Unity Bloom band, which features a unique arrangement of flowers along its length, ensuring that no two bands are identical.

From technology to one of the most significant search engines, Google has introduced the 2025 Black History Month Google Doodle. Google chose to honor house music, a unique genre that originated in Chicago’s Black community. This tribute was created in collaboration with DJ and producer Kelly G, along with a team of designers and animators. Designer Amanda Godreau describes the artwork as “a true visual symphony, echoing the rhythm, movement, and cultural essence of house music.”

Hockey fans received an exciting surprise when the Washington Capitals unveiled their new specialty jersey for Black History Month. Designed by Museum DC, a premium retail boutique, these jerseys feature player numbers adorned with a Kente pattern and the Pan-African colors as seen in Apple’s Black Unity bands. Museum DC describes the design as a “celebration of heritage, culture, and community.” These jerseys will be auctioned off for charity, with proceeds benefiting communities with limited access to the game of hockey.

Black culture has profoundly impacted both the big and small screens. If you’re big on streaming platforms, check out Hulu’s celebration of Black voices and storytellers with its ‘Black Stories Always’ hub. Hulu features African American female directors, such as Kerry Washington, who produced the drama series Reasonable Doubt and directed the pilot. African American artists are also placed at the forefront with documentaries like Sly Lives! (aka The Burden of Black Genius) executive produced by Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson. This documentary follows the life and legacy of funk band Sly and the Family Stone and examines the triumphs and trials of being Black artists in America. 

Hulu isn’t the only streaming service paying homage to Black culture. World-renowned Disney is showcasing its love for Black influence and culture with its Celebrate Soulfully initiative across its Disney Parks. One prominent attraction guests can experience at Magic Kingdom is Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, which features curated music by Grammy award-winning musician PJ Morton.

But it doesn’t stop there. Take a stroll down Disney Springs Art Walk: A Canvas of Expression, which features the work of African American artists, including Ernest Shaw’s piece, Crossing Gods. Shaw describes this series as highlighting the humanity of inner-city youth who are often stereotyped, misunderstood, and demonized.

Did you catch a glimpse of the biggest show on earth? You couldn’t miss it; Superbowl 2025 featured music from Kendrick Lamar, the Southern University Marching band, Ledisi, and Jon Batiste. A display of Black culture and music was on full display as Ledisi sang the Black National Anthem, followed by Jon Batiste delivering a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem. The Southern University Marching Band celebrated New Orleans culture through musical instruments and dance performances. Kendrick Lamar closed it with a spectacular performance filled with symbolism, punchlines, high-energy dances, and appearances from actor Samuel L. Jackson and tennis legend Serena Williams.

That influence has been felt not only in front of the camera but behind the camera. You’ve probably heard of the hit show Insecure, created by producer, actress, and entrepreneur Issa Rae. Many credit Issa Rae as being one of the pioneers of the new generation who is breaking barriers in the portrayal of Black women on screen. She shares engaging stories about Black women that provoke dialogue about friendships, relationships, and everything in between. With continued success, she now heads her own media company, Hoorae, which benefits minority writers, women, and creators of color. 

You can’t mention African American movie directors without mentioning Ryan Coogler. Although he now has box office hits like Black Panther and Creed under his belt, he has faced numerous challenges on his journey to success, including being told “no” along the way. Additionally, he belongs to an underrepresented demographic of filmmakers. In 2022, only 3.5% of directors were Black, while 80.5% were white. Fighting to prove your worth is something most Black artists and creatives know all too well. We must continue to fight and break down barriers to show future generations that our dreams are attainable.

In music, legend Aretha Franklin inspired a generation with her powerful vocals. She demonstrated how to balance a career with activism, which opened the door for superstars like Beyoncé. Beyoncé recently faced significant criticism for her country album Cowboy Carter. Her album was disapproved by many country music fans and was not recognized by the Country Music Association Awards (CMA). She discusses the origins of this album, which stemmed from “an experience that I had years ago where I did not feel welcomed.” The bright spot in this came when she won a Grammy for Best Country Album this year. 

Visionaries like Jean-Michel Basquiat were truly ahead of their time. His paintings reflected the cultural landscape in the 1970s of rap and graffiti in Harlem and the South Bronx. Trailblazers like Basquiat paved the way for influential figures in fashion, such as the late Virgil Abloh. Abloh acknowledged the impact of artists before him, stating, “More than anything, I feel like I’m a descendant of everyone from Kanye West to Pharrell Williams to Basquiat or Warhol.” His Off-White streetwear brand embodies a “break the rules” mindset reminiscent of Basquiat’s paintings.

To learn more about Black artists’ influence on creativity, we asked creators on our platform to share the experiences that have shaped their work and how other Black creators have inspired them.

With over 250 sync placements, you’ve likely heard his music on television shows such as Bel-Air and in films like Spring Breakthrough on Hallmark. Talented songwriter and collaborator Andre Writer has been creating music since he was young, even signing a contract with Motown at 14. Writer takes great pride in being a Black creator and understands the importance of this identity in shaping his work.

For Writer, Black History Month “is about learning what contributions we have made and how we defeated the odds. Regardless of your situation, you can become great and impact the world.” Although Writer’s impact on the world began very young, he credits his influence to his mother, Dwan Smith.

Xodrew, a musical prodigy, blends his Caribbean roots from Trinidad and Tobago with various musical styles, including Pop, Dancehall, Rap, and R&B. Creator Xodrew refuses to be defined by stereotypes or confined to a box that many Black creatives often face.

Xodrew is forging his own unique path in music. He credits The Weeknd as a significant influence, admiring his storytelling ability to create immersive experiences while remaining authentic to oneself:

Xodrew draws from his strong cultural roots to inspire future generations by pushing his creative limits. This Black History Month is significant for Xodrew because it encompasses more than just remembering historical figures of the past. “Learning about Black history’s heroes and everyday figures
inspires me to appreciate the depth of their contributions and the challenges they overcame.”

Justin Garner is a multi-talented artist who excels as a singer, songwriter, and performer. He has not only covered popular hits but has also written songs for some of today’s most prominent artists. His music has been featured on Spotify’s New Music Friday, as well as in the television series Teen Mom OG and various other film and television projects. Justin Garner is focused on creating new opportunities and inspiring new generations through the music world. For Garner, Black History Month is “A moment to reflect on the impact Black culture has had across all industries, especially in music and the arts.” 

Being a Black creator has significantly shaped his work. He states:

You can’t talk about breaking barriers without mentioning Beyoncé, who Garner credits as one of his influences: “Her ability to continuously evolve, transcend genres, and dominate across multiple eras is something few artists have achieved. She’s not just a singer; she’s a visionary, a leader, and a force in music and business.” 

Black creatives’ representation and influence across various industries have grown. This trend will continue as companies take the initiative to hear their voices, promote their stories, and give them a seat at the table. 

Celebrating Black history and culture shouldn’t be tied to a month. We should all try to build, support, and educate our communities year-round. If you’re having trouble with where to start, here’s a list of creatives who should be on your radar. 

Paige Tailyn is a self-proclaimed plant enthusiast and educator. You can learn so much in just a few quick swipes from her TikTok, from which plants are beginner-friendly to how to take care of your plant. It doesn’t stop there; through her website, she also has crafted a directory of BIPOC and LGBTQ+-owned plant shops in the US. 

Coloring with Coco brings back childhood memories of lying on the floor with a 64-pack of crayons, shading in your favorite coloring book. Her creations are not limited to coloring books—she also produces art prints, greeting cards, phone cases, and journals. These are the perfect gifts for that special someone in your life.

Designer Brandon Blackwood made waves throughout the fashion world when he released his End Systematic Racism tote. Created in response to the injustices people of color faced, Brandon took it further by directing profits from this iconic piece to his Brandon Blackwood Foundation, which supports creatives of color. 

Fill your atmosphere with smell goods reminiscent of “experiences like being nurtured by the people we love, the joy of our best childhood summer, and the rituals and traditions we share,” says Lori, the founder of Black Culture Candles. We can highly recommend the Black Love Candle.

It’s time to get your hands dirty with Strong Roots Pottery. Creator Danielle combines her passions of hair and clay to form beautiful, striking statement pieces like her Bantu Baddie vases. In addition to purchasing vases, you can learn how to throw clay via Danielle’s Throwing Essentials class.

If you’re like the rest of us, you may have unwittingly auto-enrolled into several virtual college courses on TikTok. A quick search of HillmanTok University will find many educators, such as Dr. Barlow’s Intro to African American Studies or Thurman Brooks’ Intro to Financial Literacy 101. There are numerous free courses available, ranging from gardening to fashion. This is an excellent example of showing up for your community and passing the knowledge on to others who may not be as fortunate. 

This list is just a small sample of African American creatives you should follow and support. Today, we’ve learned about the origin story of Black History Month, covered Black influence on American culture, and explored key African American artists and their achievements and struggles. For Black History Month 2025 and beyond, make sure you’re active in your own communities by supporting local charities, mom-and-pop shops, and African American graphic designers, to name a few.

If you want more inspiration for Black History Month, check out our article on the Harlem Renaissance and our tutorial on creating a Black History Month photo collage.