Black Joy: A Beacon of Resistance and Resilience

Black joy was not just a fleeting moment of happiness but a radical act of survival. It flourished in the harshest circumstances, a testament to the indomitable spirit of Black communities. Through music, dance, storytelling, and communal gatherings, Black individuals found ways to connect, heal, and resist.

This joy was not about denying the pain or injustice—it coexisted with the reality of systemic oppression. It was about finding strength in shared humanity and culture. Celebrations became acts of defiance, showing that even under the weight of dehumanization, the human spirit could rise.

In our tours, we highlight how joy manifested in different ways:

In the African Quarter, we discuss the lives of Black individuals who, despite being marginalized, created communities of support and solidarity.

At the Humboldt Forum, we critically examine how Black voices and cultural expressions have been preserved, erased, or appropriated, but also how they endure as powerful symbols of resilience.

In Schöneberg, we uncover stories of Black artists, activists, and everyday people who used creativity and connection as tools of empowerment.

Joy as Resistance: Music, Dance, and Art

Black joy was a form of self-care—a necessity for survival in the face of systemic brutality. Music became a sanctuary where pain could be expressed, and hope could be nurtured. Dance was both a release and a reclamation of agency, with movements that echoed ancestral memories and defied colonial narratives.

These expressions of joy often served dual purposes:

Healing the Soul: Amidst unimaginable suffering, joy offered a reprieve, a moment to breathe, and a way to keep going.

Fueling the Fight for Liberation: Celebrations of Black culture reminded communities of their worth and dignity, inspiring continued resistance against oppression.

Through the storytelling on our tours, we honor these legacies, showing how joy was intricately woven into the fabric of resistance.