Dr. D. Elisabeth GlasscoJun 28, 2023

Familiar to just about every Black American, the phrase "traveling while Black," encapsulates the experiences & challenges encountered by Black people during their travels, particularly in predominantly white or racially hostile environments. It sheds light on the racial profiling, discrimination, and systemic biases that generations of Black folks have faced on their journeys across the American landscape.

1/21

#BlackMastodon #Histodons #History #travel #books
@[email protected] @BlackMastodon

Show threadDr. D. Elisabeth GlasscoJun 28, 2023

Even after Emancipation and the introduction of civil rights legislation in late 19th century, white Americans, esp in former Confederate states, maintained their privileged social position by subjugating Black Americans in various aspects of life, including housing, education, healthcare, employment, & public transportation. Consequently, Black travelers endured scrutiny, harassment, & suspicion solely based on their race.

2/21

#BlackHistory #BlackMastodon #Histodons #History

#Travel

Show threadDr. D. Elisabeth GlasscoJun 28, 2023

Just after Emancipation and before the widespread use of automobiles, Black Americans faced significant challenges while traveling due to racial segregation and discrimination that persisted during the Jim Crow era in the United States. Despite being legally free, Black folks encountered obstacles and dangers during their journeys.

3/21

#BlackHistory #BlackMastodon #Histodons #History

#Travel

Show threadDr. D. Elisabeth GlasscoJun 28, 2023

The roots of “traveling while black” trace back to the implementation of segregation laws aka “Jim Crow laws.” These laws enforced racial separation in public spaces like transportation. Black Americans were subjected to separate & inferior accommodations, faced mistreatment in trains, buses, & waiting areas. The segregated facilities were poorly maintained & lacked basic amenities, highlighting institutionalized racism embedded in travel.

4/21

#BlackMastodon #Histodons #History

#Travel

Show threadWolleysegap
@Deglassco I'm certain that you are already aware of this, but it still worth saying, lest we become complacent about these images and imagine that all of this is now relegated to some dusty old history book. Sundown towns are still a real thing today, law or no law. Thank you for helping us to understand the roots of societal injustices that still need to be properly addressed today.
Jun 28, 2023 at 5:15pmWeb