For years, Black history has often been erased, ignored, or told in a limited way. In many cases, textbooks and other educational sources have minimized the contributions of Black people, focusing mainly on a white-centered view of history. Black stories, experiences, and achievements have been pushed aside or misrepresented. This erasure leaves gaps in history and makes it difficult for younger generations to learn about the true depth of Black culture and the impact Black people have had on society. However, as technology and social media have grown, the next generation is working to reclaim these stories. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter are helping to revive, share, and reshape Black history in ways that are both powerful and accessible.
Social media has become an essential tool for spreading awareness about Black history. It allows everyday people to share stories that might not be told in textbooks or news outlets. Through hashtags, videos, and posts, young Black creatives are taking charge of their own narratives and helping to correct misunderstandings about the past. For example, on Instagram and Twitter, users share personal stories about their families’ roles in important historical moments, from the Civil Rights Movement to modern-day activism. These personal stories highlight the importance of Black culture and show how Black history is not just something that happened a long time ago but something that is still alive and shaping today’s world. Social media helps bring these stories to a global audience and ensures that Black people can share their history on their own terms.
A great example of how social media is helping to spread Black history is the “Hillman Tok” trend on TikTok. This trend was inspired by the fictional Hillman College from the popular 90s TV show A Different World. Hillman Tok has become a way for people to celebrate and share their experiences at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). These schools have been key in providing higher education to Black students and are a symbol of Black excellence. Hillman Tok allows HBCU students, alumni, and supporters to share videos about their school experiences, traditions, and the pride they feel in being part of these institutions. The trend has become a place to celebrate the unique experiences of Black students and show the world how important HBCUs are in Black culture and history.
What makes Hillman Tok so important is that it connects the past with the present. It brings together people who attended HBCUs decades ago with current students, allowing them to share their experiences, celebrate traditions, and pass down the knowledge and pride of these institutions. Hillman Tok is not just about fun TikTok challenges; it’s about reclaiming a space that has often been overlooked and making sure people understand how vital HBCUs are to the Black community. By celebrating these schools and their traditions, the trend reminds us of the lasting impact HBCUs have had on Black culture and society.
In addition to trends like Hillman Tok, many other Black creatives are using social media to share untold stories, educate others, and celebrate important moments in Black history. These platforms allow for a more inclusive approach to storytelling, showing the diversity of Black experiences. People can share stories about lesser-known Black figures, cultural practices, and everyday accomplishments that may not have been covered by traditional media. Social media lets everyone tell their own story, offering a space where Black voices can be heard, valued, and celebrated.
As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to advance, it holds the potential to reshape the way Black history is shared and understood. AI tools can help preserve, analyze, and even reconstruct historical narratives that have been lost or erased. For example, AI-powered algorithms can scan archives, databases, and digital records to uncover hidden stories or forgotten figures from Black history. These tools can help historians and researchers identify patterns, extract relevant information from vast amounts of data, and ensure that underrepresented voices are heard. Additionally, AI can aid in the creation of more inclusive and accurate historical content by identifying and correcting biases that may exist in traditional narratives. However, it’s important to recognize that AI must be used carefully and responsibly, as it can also reinforce existing biases if not properly managed. When used thoughtfully, AI has the power to elevate Black storytelling, providing new insights, amplifying underrepresented voices, and offering a more complete and truthful portrayal of Black history.
Social media continues to offer even more opportunities to push back against the erasure of Black history. The next generation is no longer waiting for schools or traditional media outlets to tell their stories. Instead, they are using digital platforms to share, preserve, and teach Black history in their own way. By doing so, they are not only keeping the past alive but also helping to create a more honest and inclusive future for everyone. Social media has become a powerful tool for making sure that Black history is told in its entirety and that the contributions of Black people are recognized and celebrated for generations to come.