Hi! I’m Joy, a Louisiana-born, Nigerian-American writer who’s obsessed with literature, research, and the untold histories of Africa and the Black diaspora. The Braid Blog is where I weave it all together: memory, literature, culture, and the quiet power in our everyday lives. Think of this space as part archive, part altar–always an offering.
I’d love to connect! Feel free to visit my socials below or send me an email xo.
My why is you. You who is unrepresented, undocumented, and disenfranchised. This is for you.
“Circle of braids” by Lemon Fee
Art.
The artistic canon historically represents amazing artists like Van Gogh and DiCaprio, while strategically excluding the works of artisans like Jean-Michel Basquiat, Edmonia Lewis, and Augusta Savage. Here, we will appreciate art that represents us.
Archive.
Erasure is one of the biggest threats to the Black community globally. Whether in literature, history, or technology, the world has omitted that most of the greatest patents originated in Black minds. Our creations and inventions deserve to be properly credited.
Amplify.
Our voices are loud, harmonious, and soulful, building in the depths of our traumas and bellowing at the bases of our diaphragms. For too long, the world has silenced our voices. Here, they will hear us.
The BB Values
“I’m rooting for everybody Black.”
Issa Rae
Your Input is Necessary.
This safe space doesn’t belong only to me; it’s for you, too. You are my inspiration and I need your help to weave this Braid. Please leave your thoughts on the Strands and contact me as often as possible with your ideas.
Have a niche topic I should research and blog about? Share it!
