Black Love Day is often met with beautiful photos online with couples sharing in their love, but this day is not just about romantic love and, in fact, it wasn’t founded on that type of love at all. 

According to NationalToday.com, Black Love Day was created in 1993 by Ayo Handy-Kendi, popularly known as “Mama Ayo,” an author, breathologist, and founder of the African American Holiday Association (AAHA). In January 1993, Handy-Kendi watched Malcolm X shot down by other Black people, and was particularly moved by the incident. As she sat alone on a bus on her way back home, her thoughts drifted to what she could do to stop the violence and engender peace. Recalling that moment, Handy-Kendi said, “I heard the creator say to me that we need more Black love.” This was what inspired her to celebrate Black Love Day in February that year. After losing her son to an act of violence, she celebrated the day once again, the following year.

In an interview with The Daily Dot, Handy-Kendi explained how the day was to be celebrated. Said she, “We encourage people on this day to do something very simple — just demonstrate love for 24 hours, and celebrate and atone, offer forgiveness to ourselves and to others, and to accept the very important tenets — what we call the five Black love tenets.” People are also encouraged to greet one another with Nya Akoma” — a phrase that means “get a heart” or “be patient.”

As we celebrate the 30th anniversary of Black Love Day, here’s how you can honor Mama Ayo’s work and desire for our people to be loved and see, consider these practices. 

Show and send love

Love is needed above all else, and as a community, the love we deserve from one another goes beyond just romantic love. Check on your family, consider a random act of kindness, and love on your people. 

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Atone for your behavior

Use this day to make amends, apologize, and atone with the people you need to the most. Community is important for Black Love, but so is accountability.

Teach your children about Black Love Day 

Let them know how important this day is not just for us, but for all people to celebrate and support. 

Support groups that work to end racism and violence

Show support for organizations who are passionate about ending racism worldwide and violence in our communities. And as you’re posting and raising awareness, use the hashtag #BlackLoveDay. 

Use this day to make amends, apologize, and atone with the people you need to the most. Community is important for Black Love, but so is accountability.