How to Be a Better Human History, memories, and the stories we tell ourselves (w/ Clint Smith)
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Apr 7, 2025 Clint Smith, a talented poet and author of *How the Word is Passed*, dives deep into the intersections of history and personal identity. He wrestles with the legacy of figures like Thomas Jefferson, advocating for honest narratives about America's past. Clint emphasizes the need to celebrate joyful moments in Black history, encouraging a broader perspective beyond suffering. He intertwines poetry and personal anecdotes to explore growth, creativity, and the vital role of empathy in understanding our complex histories.
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History, Memory, and Nostalgia
- History is what happened, nostalgia is what we wish happened, and memory lies in between.
- Our memories are shaped by stories, both factual and fictional, influencing our understanding of the past and ourselves.
Discovering Historical Context
- Clint Smith grew up in New Orleans, internalizing negative messages about Black communities.
- Later, he discovered scholarship revealing how historical forces, starting with slavery, shaped present inequalities.
Teaching History to Children
- Teach young people about historical oppression while also emphasizing the broader Black experience.
- Provide space for them to imagine a future beyond those struggles.
