I often refer to I Got Your Black as the modern day Green Book, but unless you’re a historian, tour guide or have seen Mahershala Ali’s latest film, theres a chance you may not be familiar with the book. Like I Got Your Black, The Green Book catered to the needs of Black travelers.
In 1936, Victor Hugo. Green, published The Negro Motorist Green Book. Green, a postal worker and civic leader from Harlem, sought to create a comprehensive guide for African Americans traveling by road during segregation. He wanted to alleviate the “embarrassments” and dangers associated with driving while Black during Jim Crow. His publication listed gas stations, rest stops, eateries, taverns, and lodgings that served African Americans. In a period when Black motorist were openly denied access to White-owned spaces, Green’s publication created a survival resource for those en route. Learn more about The Green Book and how I Got Your Black is continuing it’s legacy below.
Traveling Black
It’s an understatement to say Black tourist had their journey cut out for them. With “separate but equal” laws and Jim Crow in effect, it was difficult to find resources while on the road. Many motorist had to travel with extra gas and food. The Green Book made travel easier by listing places where Black folk were welcomed. Although there aren’t “White-Only” signs on the doors of businesses today, racial profiling still exist. I Got Your Black features accommodations, restaurants, events, and arts & culture spaces that are Black-owned, making it easy to travel Black no matter the location. Why be a potential victim of a Starbucks incident when you can visit a quality business with people who look like you…that wont call the cops?
Support of Black Businesses
When “White-only” spaces denied Black people their services, Green created a directory that included businesses owned by people of color. This allowed African American consumers to directly support their community economically. I Got Your Black believes “buying Black” and “traveling Black” should be a lifestyle. It’s not just about visiting a soul food spot on a trip Down South. Whether it’s through your morning coffee or a stay at a Black-owned hotel, our Black-guides-to-travel makes it easy to support the global Black community daily from abroad or at home.
International Black Content
Although the first edition of The Green Book focused on the New York metro area by the next year it had become so popular that it’s contents were expanded to include all U.S states. Green relied on postal workers from across the country and user submitted tips to gather information. By 1952, the publication included Bermuda and cities in Mexico and Canada. I Got Your Black focuses on creating travel content that explores and connects the African diaspora globally. Through various international trips and with the help of our friends around the world we are able to publish content that showcases the international Black experience.
Divine Purpose
This is where the story gets personal. As most of you know my birth name is Diva Green. Yes my mama had the nerve to name me Diva. Did you know the root word of Diva is divine? Any who, Victor Hugo Green and I share a namesake and home state. Like myself, Green desired to make travel easier for Black folk. Prior to learning about The Green Book I knew I wanted to create a platform that explored Black culture through travel, but after discovering it’s history and the founders background, I knew I was working not only towards my dream but my divine purpose. My goal is to create an innovative platform, and utility for Black travelers while connecting and supporting the global Black Community.
I’m currently working on the Black-Guide-to-Crown-Heights. Do you live in the area or maybe you’re traveling abroad? If so #igotyourblack and comment your favorite Black destinations below!
