Black History Month is a time to celebrate, reflect, and learn—not just about history, but about the people who have shaped our world in ways big and small. This year’s theme, African Americans and Labor, is a reminder of the talents, innovation, and resilience Black workers—entrepreneurs, artists, and activists—have shown throughout history.
But let’s be honest—in the US today, talking about history, race, and work might be something leaders are hesitant to do. We at Coqual encourage storytelling as one of the best ways to bring people together. A great book, a moving podcast, or an unforgettable song can spark curiosity, invite reflection, and create real moments of connection and community.
That’s exactly what happened a few years ago when we started a Black History Month book club at work. What began as a simple reading assignment turned into one of the most meaningful conversations I’ve ever been part of. People shared personal connections and insights, and it reminded me that stories—whether told through books, music, or film—have a way of opening doors to deeper understanding.
This year, I invited my colleagues to share their favorite books, films, podcasts, and artists that highlight Black labor and creativity. The response was incredible. Some of these recommendations dive into history and resilience, others celebrate Black artistry, entrepreneurship, and joy. All of them offer ways to explore, reflect, and start conversations that matter. Thanks to Sandra, Allegra and Emilia for the inspiration!
How to Spark Conversations with Your Team
Want to bring these discussions to life at work? Here are a few simple ways to get started:
- Create a Shared List – Start a Slack or Teams thread where people can drop their favorite books, podcasts, or music throughout the month.
- Host a Story Swap – Set up a casual coffee chat where people share books, podcasts, or personal experiences connected to Black history and labor.
- Make It a Team Activity – Choose a podcast or short article, listen or read together, and discuss over lunch.
- Celebrate All Forms of Learning – Whether it’s a novel, a jazz album, or a YouTube video, there’s no one “right” way to engage.
Now, onto the list! Whether you’re looking for something thought-provoking, uplifting, or just plain interesting, there’s something here for you. Pick one, share it with your team, and see where the conversation takes you. No pressure, no lectures—just a chance to listen, learn, and connect.
Podcast Episodes & Discussion Questions
- Roundhouse Crosstalk: “The Sleeping Car Porter: Reimagining History through Fiction”
Listen Here: Sleeping Car Porters
This episode explores the history of Black sleeping car porters—one of the first professions where Black workers had access to steady employment after the Civil War—through the lens of fiction. While the job provided economic mobility, it also came with grueling hours, low wages, and racial discrimination. The discussion looks at how storytelling helps bring this history to life and why the legacy of the porters still matters today.
Discussion Questions:
- What new insights did you gain about the daily struggles of sleeping car porters?
- How did their work contribute to the labor rights movement in the U.S.?
- What lessons can be learned from their fight for fair wages and better working conditions?
- Code Switch: “From pee-wees to the pros, what football tells us about race in the U.S.”
Listen Here: From pee-wees to the pros, what football tells us about race in the U.S.
Football isn’t just a game—it’s a reflection of American society. From youth leagues to the NFL, race, labor, and opportunity shape the sport in ways that go beyond the field. This episode explores how Black athletes navigate systemic challenges in football, from early development to professional careers.
Discussion Questions:
- How do race and socioeconomic background impact opportunities in youth football?
- What historical patterns do you see in the way Black athletes are recruited, coached, and represented in leadership roles?
- What role do college football and the NFL play in shaping conversations about race and labor in the U.S.?
Books to Read & Discuss
Giovanni’s Room – James Baldwin
A beautifully written novel about love, identity, and self-discovery, set in 1950s Paris.
Discussion Questions:
- How does Baldwin explore the intersection of race, identity, and work in this novel?
- What does the story reveal about the emotional labor of hiding parts of one’s identity?
A Chosen Exile: A History of Passing in American Life – Allyson Hobbs
A deep dive into the history of Black Americans who “passed” as white, leaving behind their families, communities, and roots for economic and social mobility.
Discussion Questions:
- How did the decision to “pass” reflect economic and social realities of the time?
- What does this history reveal about privilege and opportunity in the workplace?
Medgar & Myrlie – Joy-Ann Reid
A biography of Civil Rights leader Medgar Evers and his wife, Myrlie, who carried on his activism after his assassination.
Discussion Questions:
- How did Medgar Evers’ activism impact labor and economic justice movements?
- How do Myrlie Evers’ contributions highlight the unseen labor of women in activism?
Films & Documentaries to Watch
True Justice (2019) – Bryan Stevenson
A documentary following Bryan Stevenson, founder of the Equal Justice Initiative, and his work in criminal justice reform and labor rights.
Discussion Questions:
- What connections do you see between the criminal justice system and labor inequality?
- How can we support labor rights within the justice system today?
Music to Listen To
Doechii – Tiny Desk Concert
Watch Here: Doechii – Tiny Desk Concert
Doechii is a powerhouse performer who won Best Rap Album at this year’s Grammys. Her Tiny Desk Concert is a must-watch, featuring coordinated costumes, electric energy, and a sound that blends hip-hop, R&B, and pure artistry.
Discussion Questions:
- What does Doechii’s performance say about the labor behind artistry?
- How do modern Black artists continue the tradition of blending music with storytelling?
- How do spaces like Tiny Desk Concerts allow artists to connect with audiences in new ways?
Samara Joy – Linger Awhile
Listen Here: Samara Joy – Linger Awhile
Samara Joy is proof that jazz never died—it’s alive and thriving. A Bronx native and Grammy-winning artist, she brings fresh energy to classic jazz vocals. While she won her Grammys for a holiday album, Linger Awhile is a perfect showcase of her talent, bridging past and present in a way that feels timeless.
Discussion Questions:
- How does Samara Joy honor jazz traditions while making the genre her own?
- Why do you think jazz has often been overlooked as part of mainstream music conversations?
- What role has jazz played in shaping Black labor and culture over the decades?
Esperanza Spalding – 12 Little Spells
Listen Here: Esperanza Spalding – 12 Little Spells
Esperanza Spalding is a bassist, jazz vocalist, and composer who bends genres and expectations with every album. 12 Little Spells is a mesmerizing mix of jazz, soul, and experimental sounds, blending artistry with messages of healing and empowerment. She’s also deeply involved in social justice, using her music to inspire change.
Discussion Questions:
- How does Esperanza Spalding challenge traditional ideas of jazz and musicianship?
- What connections do you see between labor and creativity in her work?
- How can artists use their platforms to advocate for social change?
YouTube Creators to Follow & Discuss
Deep dives into social issues, history, and pop culture.
Discussion Questions:
- How does media influence our perception of race and labor?
- What modern labor challenges do you see reflected in these discussions?
Feminism, media analysis, and nerd culture with a sharp sense of humor.
Discussion Questions:
- How does media representation impact opportunities in creative industries?
- What insights can we take from these videos into our own workplaces?
Thoughtful, in-depth discussions on race, class, and entertainment.
Discussion Questions:
- How do entertainment and work intersect for Black artists and creatives?
- What are some ongoing challenges for Black laborers in media industries?
Keep the Conversation Going
At the heart of Black History Month is connection—connecting to history, to stories, and most importantly, to each other. The conversations we have this month don’t need to end here.
So, what’s one recommendation from this list that stood out to you? What’s something new you learned from these stories?
Let’s keep sharing, listening, and learning—because when we understand each other better, we work better together.
