Juneteenth marks the day when news of the Emancipation Proclamation reached enslaved individuals in Galveston, Texas, in 1865, two and a half years after it was issued. This delayed emancipation was due to the persistent resistance of slaveholders and the slow dissemination of information.
Juneteenth represents the moment when the last remaining enslaved African Americans in the United States learned of their freedom, marking a critical milestone in the abolition of slavery.
So today, you may just want to indulge in meaningful and culturally significant TV series that celebrate Black stories, history, and achievements. Here are some of the best series to binge:
Roots (1977)
This iconic miniseries, based on Alex Haley’s novel, traces the journey of an African man named Kunta Kinte who is captured and sold into slavery. Roots offers a powerful and unflinching depiction of the African American experience, highlighting the resilience and determination of individuals striving for freedom.
Black Mirror (2011-)
While not exclusively focused on Black stories, Black Mirror explores the impact of technology on society, often tackling issues of racism, discrimination, and social inequality in thought-provoking ways. It prompts viewers to reflect on the intersection of race, technology, and the human experience.
“Atlanta” (2016- 2022)
Created by and starring Donald Glover, Atlanta is a critically acclaimed series that follows the lives of Earn and his cousin, a rising rap artist named Paper Boi, as they navigate the music scene in Atlanta. The show artfully addresses themes of race, identity, and the complexities of Black life in America.
Dear White People (2017-2021)
Based on the film of the same name, Dear White People is a satirical comedy-drama series that tackles racial tensions and cultural appropriation on a predominantly white Ivy League campus. It offers nuanced insights into the experiences and perspectives of Black students and serves as a platform for important conversations about race and identity.
The Wire (2002-2008)
The Wire is a critically acclaimed series that explores various aspects of life in Baltimore, including the city’s drug trade, politics, education system, and media. With a diverse ensemble cast and intricate storytelling, the show delves into systemic issues that disproportionately affect Black communities, sparking conversations about inequality and social justice.
Insecure 2016-2021
Created by and starring Issa Rae, Insecure is a witty and relatable comedy-drama series that follows the personal and professional lives of two Black women, Issa and Molly, as they navigate relationships, careers, and self-discovery. The show authentically portrays the complexities of Black female experiences and addresses themes of race, love, and friendship.
REELated:
When They See Us (2019)
Directed by Ava DuVernay, When They See Us is a powerful miniseries based on the true story of the Central Park Five—a group of Black and Hispanic teenagers wrongly convicted of a brutal assault. The series explores the profound impact of racial profiling, injustice, and the fight for exoneration, shedding light on the flaws in the criminal justice system.
Queen Sugar (2016- 2022)
Based on Natalie Baszile’s novel, Queen Sugar follows the lives of the Bordelon siblings as they inherit their father’s sugarcane farm in Louisiana. This heartfelt drama series addresses themes of family, identity, and the complexities of race and class in rural America.
Power (2014-2020)
Power is a crime drama series that revolves around James “Ghost” St. Patrick, a wealthy nightclub owner who is also involved in the drug trade. With its compelling storytelling and diverse characters, the show offers a gripping exploration of power dynamics, race, and the pursuit of success.
Luke Cage (2016-2018)
Marvel’s Luke Cage is a superhero series that follows the titular character, a bulletproof African American man with superhuman strength, as he protects Harlem from various threats. The show celebrates Black culture, addresses social issues, and presents a strong Black superhero at the forefront.
These series provide diverse perspectives and narratives that honor Black experiences, shedding light on the challenges, triumphs, and resilience of the community. Binge-watching these shows on Juneteenth can be an engaging way to celebrate and reflect on the significance of this historic day.
