Now, when you add Black culture to speculative fiction, you create a new genre of endless possibilities that only Black writers can create. Using fantasy and science fiction elements to introduce ancestral powers that still feel instinctive culturally is a feat within itself. While it is no secret that some Black people aren’t as welcoming to different elements and possibilities of Black spirituality, writers continue to find ways to pair the old with the new.
Who Created Black Speculative Fiction Month
Let’s start by giving credit to where credit is rightfully due: to Black speculative fiction writer Milton Davis along with writer Balogun Ojetade. Davis has written several books that center on speculative fiction and is revered as a leading voice in the Black speculative writing world. The purpose of the celebration is to highlight Black voices who are creating worlds that center their identity, culture, and imagination.
What Is Hoodoo
“Hoodoo is the African American system of spiritual practice based in the curative and protective power of roots, herbs, and other natural materials, ” says Katrina Hazzard-Donald, who is the author of Jookin’: The Rise of Social Dance Formations in African American Culture. Hazzard-Donald has written books on the Black diaspora pathway that connects Black Americans to their ancestors before they were captured via the transatlantic slave trade. Hoodoo is often regarded as a Black folk religion that connects our bodies and spirit to nature and our ancestors. Herbs, roots, hymns and alters are used to help manifest good spirits to bring peace and healing to oneself, household, or loved ones. Frankly, when it comes to unexplained occurrences and superstitions, I have found that Black people, especially older Black people, can be particular in things they say, how they say them, and the way they navigate. Let me explain. My grandmother was born during the great depression and there were certain things she always did, like eat black-eyed peas for the new year or sweep the house in a certain direction, that to her were just a tradition passed down. But after researching, I found that those are specifically related to hoodoo culture. I am not an expert on hoodoo culture, but as a fan of speculative fiction, I find it mesmerizing that a lot of Black writers are incorporating hoodoo into their storytelling. So, to celebrate Black Speculative Fiction Month and #HoodooHeritageMonth, I’ve compiled a shortlist of books that embrace hoodoo culture. Continue to celebrate Black Speculative Fiction Month by reading more Black sci-fi and fantasy writers.
