SHIFTER Magazine was established in August 2013 as a hub for Black and urban culture worldwide. We are dedicated to amplifying Black voices and talent across music, film, television, fashion, sports, and more.
Join us as we shine a spotlight on the rich cultural legacy of Black Americans in Atlanta.
Black Icons and Influencers in Atlanta
Frontline Heroes: Atlanta’s Black American Advocates
Atlanta played a pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, serving as a hub of activism, leadership, and strategic planning. Notable figures from Atlanta who significantly contributed to the movement include:
- John Lewis: the “Conscience of the Congress”. Lewis played a vital role in the movement and coordinated the March on Washington in 1963.
- Martin Luther King Jr.: perhaps the most iconic figure of the Civil Rights Movement. King, an Atlanta native, was a central figure in advocating for nonviolent resistance and equality.
- Andrew Young: a pastor and later mayor of Atlanta, Young was a close associate of Martin Luther King Jr. and played a vital role in drafting the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
- Dorothy Bolden: an Atlanta-based activist and trailblazer for domestic workers’ rights, advocating for better working conditions and equality.
These figures, among many others, propelled Atlanta to the forefront of the Civil Rights Movement, creating a legacy of activism and progress that continues to influence the city’s Black community to this day.
Business Pioneers: Celebrating Black Entrepreneurship in Atlanta
Did you know that Atlanta has the highest rate of Black-owned businesses in the U.S.? 8.8% of businesses in the Georgia metro are Black-owned. Notable among them is The Gathering Spot, an innovative co-working space founded by Ryan Wilson and TK Petersen.
Another gem is Grind Pretty, an empowering beauty and lifestyle brand launched by Mimi Johnson that offers a community platform for women entrepreneurs.
Artistic Innovations: Spotlight on Atlanta’s Black Creatives
Atlanta has fostered a huge number of influential Black artists, musicians, and cultural icons who have not only shaped the city’s culture but have also left their mark on the global stage. OutKast, comprised of André “André 3000” Benjamin and Antwan “Big Bo” Patton, revolutionized hip-hop in the 1990s with their eclectic sound, placing Atlanta firmly on the musical map.
Other notable Atlanta-native music icons include Ludacris, Ciara, Jermaine Dupri, Usher, and many more. Their legendary achievements showcase the diversity and depth of talent within Atlanta’s Black community.
Atlanta’s Essence: Celebrating Black American Heritage
Atlanta’s Black American heritage is deeply woven into the fabric of the city. You can see evidence of Black heritage in its history, landmarks, and the individuals who continue to shape the city.
For example, the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr., born and raised in Atlanta, permeates the city to this day. You can visit historic sites like the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, preserving his childhood home and the Ebenezer Baptist Church where he preached.
Additionally, the historic Auburn Avenue, once hailed as the “richest Negro street in the world,” now stands as a testament to the thriving Black business district that flourished in the early 20th century. The Sweet Auburn Curb Market also remains an iconic landmark in Atlanta’s culinary and entrepreneurial landscape.
Cuisine and Culinary Scene: Savouring Atlanta’s Flavors
Atlanta’s culinary scene is undeniably influenced by the Black community, featuring flavors, histories, and traditions that captivate the taste buds and tell stories of cultural richness. Notable establishments like Busy Bee Cafe, an Atlanta institution since 1947, have been serving up soulful classics and providing a taste of comfort and nostalgia.
Renowned chefs like Chef Deborah VanTrece of Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours bring innovative twists to traditional Southern dishes, showcasing the evolution of Black cuisine. The city’s many events, like the Taste of Soul Atlanta, also celebrate the intersection of food and culture.
From the legacy of family recipes passed down through generations to modern interpretations that push culinary boundaries, Atlanta’s Black chefs and restaurants contribute to a diverse culinary scene that is as much about community and storytelling as it is about delicious flavors.
Atlanta’s Screen Scene: Black Americans in Film and Television
Lights, Camera, Atlanta: The Rise of Black Filmmaking
In Atlanta’s thriving film industry, Black filmmakers are carving out their space to reflect the diversity and narratives of the city. One shining example is Tyler Perry, whose production studio in Atlanta stands as a testament to his prolific impact on film and television. Perry’s work, from the Madea film series to television productions, has garnered critical acclaim and opened doors for other Black creatives.
Emerging talents like Nefertite Nguvu, director of “In the Morning,” are also making waves. Nguvu’s work touches on relationships and Black identity, adding nuanced layers to Atlanta’s film industry.
On the Small Screen: Celebrating Black Television in Atlanta
Atlanta’s influence on the small screen is profound, with several Black shows and talents making significant contributions. One standout example is “Atlanta,” created by and starring Donald Glover. This critically highly-lauded series showcases a unique and authentic portrayal of the city’s culture and challenges, earning Glover both Emmy and Golden Globe Awards.
Another rising star is Priah Ferguson, an Atlanta native who plays the memorable role of Erica Sinclair on the hit Netflix show “Stranger Things.” These are just a few examples of Atlanta’s role as a fertile ground for Black talent and narratives in television.
Atlanta’s Change Makers: Black Health and Wellness
Health Empowerment: Addressing Atlanta’s Black Community Needs
While Black Americans make up approximately 50% of the population in Atlanta, income inequality, limited access to quality healthcare, and systemic inequalities continue to permeate the city. High rates of conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and obesity disproportionately affect Atlanta’s Black population.
However, healthcare professionals in Atlanta are actively working to address these issues. Community-based initiatives and healthcare organizations are implementing programs that prioritize culturally competent care, recognizing the importance of understanding the Black community’s unique experiences and perspectives.
Mindful Living: Mental Health Resources in Atlanta
Recognizing the importance of culturally sensitive mental health care, Atlanta offers various initiatives tailored to meet the unique needs of the Black population.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Georgia actively provides resources, support groups, and educational programs to break down stigmas surrounding mental health in the Black community.
Other Atlanta-based organizations, like the Center for Black Women’s Wellness, prioritize mental health through counseling services, community outreach, and workshops. Their multifaceted approach aims to address mental health concerns comprehensively within the Black community.
Black Community Events Calendar in Atlanta
Coming Up This Month
Atlanta Black Expo 2024
An expo featuring a variety of local Black-owned businesses
February 10, 11a.m. to 6p.m.
Cobb GalleriaCollege Park Black History Month Program
February 3, 2p.m. to 4p.m.
College Park City Auditorium
