February 2026 marks the 100th anniversary of Black History Month, a year‑long celebration of the achievements of Black people in the United States. To mark the milestone, The Root has launched an ongoing series titled “100 Lessons for Black People,” gathering personal insights from a cross‑section of Black leaders, creators and innovators.
Sen. Raphael Warnock, Pastor and Politician
Warnock recalls his father’s daily mantra, “Secure up. Get dressed. Put your shoes on. Get ready,” explaining that the lesson of readiness has guided his public service.
Rev. Dr. William Barber, Co‑chair of the Poor People’s Campaign
Barber urges a collective self‑examination, asking what “door” was left open and stressing repentance as essential to finishing the campaign’s unfinished work.
KevOnStage (Kevin Fredericks), Actor and Comedian
Fredericks reminds creators that perfection is not required for impact, noting that “good is good enough” when sharing content.
Amy DuBois Barnett, Author and Former EIC of EBONY
Barnett advises Black people to “get comfortable with being uncomfortable,” arguing that fear often signals growth and opens doors.
Kennedy Ryan, Modern York Times Best‑Selling Romance Author
Ryan emphasizes community, saying “we are all we got,” and encourages holding doors open for the next Black woman pursuing her dreams.
Stacey Abrams, Politician and Author
Abrams stresses that authentic leadership means creating one’s own standards and refusing to adopt restrictive system language, even after setbacks.
Tramell Tillman, Emmy‑Winning Actor (“Severance”)
Tillman urges Black people to “get down off the cross,” reminding them that each person has a role in a larger body and should focus on playing that part.
William Stanford Davis, Actor (“Abbott Elementary”)
Davis says “faith and discipline beat doubt,” noting that together they sustain momentum when the world questions you.
Dewayne Perkins, Creator of “The Blackening”
Perkins champions laughter as a compass, claiming it deepens relationships, joy, and even financial success.
Tracie Thoms, Actress and Singer (“Rent”)
Thoms shares a mentor’s advice: “The Cream Always Rises,” encouraging patience, faith, and continual effort.
Jean Elie, Actor and Creator (“Send Help”)
Elie stresses self‑reliance, urging artists to “put in the work” and stay active rather than waiting for others.
Beatrice Dixon, CEO of The Honey Pot Co.
Dixon reminds readers to stay true to themselves and honor their ancestors, even when confronting powerful institutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the “100 Lessons for Black People” series?
The series reflects on a century of Black excellence and shares wisdom from influential Black thought leaders, creatives and innovators to inspire pride and personal agency.
Who are some of the contributors featured in the series?
Contributors include Sen. Raphael Warnock, Rev. Dr. William Barber, KevOnStage, Amy DuBois Barnett, Kennedy Ryan, Stacey Abrams, Tramell Tillman, William Stanford Davis, Dewayne Perkins, Tracie Thoms, Jean Elie and Beatrice Dixon.
What common themes emerge from the lessons shared?
Key themes are readiness, authenticity, embracing discomfort, community support, discipline, faith, humor, perseverance and honoring one’s ancestors.
Which of these lessons resonates most with you, and how might you apply it in your own life?
