In our second year of celebrating Black History Month Heroes, some trends have probably become apparent. We tend to recognize Black people who took a political stand, either as a conscious activist effort or within the arts. We specifically recognize artists, not only because we’re an arts collective, but also because of the privilege provided to artists and producers: We have the opportunity to represent or provide representation. Serena Williams deserves every accolade she’s ever received for being such an unprecedented phenom in tennis, but there’s no denying that she holds a special place in many Black girls’ hearts for representing them. Words simply cannot express what it means to see a Black woman- beautifully and unabashedly Black- at the top of her field in such a momentous fashion. Even as Williams faces criticism, much of it superficial, racist, demeaning, or misogynistic, we can cherish her #BlackGirlMagic in a way that I don’t quite remember celebrating when I was a pre-teen.

I will be honest with you: I am not, nor have I ever been, a tennis fan. In fact, when the subject of tennis comes up, I’ll likely only remember the names of Williams Sisters’ opponents in the past few months. They play the only games I actively seek out, and I’ve found an odd community in those who gather simply to share in Serena Williams’s successes and send her love (via Twitter and prayer) in her struggles.

“I don’t ever want to stop.” – Serena Williams

Serena Williams is often referred to as the greatest female tennis player in the world. The Women’s Tennis Association has ranked her #1 six times between 2002 and 2013. She holds the most major titles in singles and doubles combined amongst all active players, including men and women. She’s won 14 Grand Slam Doubles with her sister, Venus, and the two are undefeated in Grand Slam Doubles Finals. She hasn’t won every match, but she’s more than made her mark. Her talent, commitment, hard work, and tenacity has built a standard for excellence that has infuriated, inspired, and enraged. For that and so much more, I’m proud to salute Serena Williams this month on behalf of Black Revolutionary Theatre Workshop.

Heather Harvey,
Co-Founder