Ridin’ the Waves: The Hidden Black History of Surfing

That Wasn't In My Textbook

In this episode, we're diving into the rich history of Black folks in the world of surfing. Many text say the first accounts of surfing started in Hawaii in 1778 but evidence shows otherwise. From the shores of West Africa to the modern-day waves, we're uncovering how Black folks have been riding the waves since the 1640s and carving out safe spaces in surfing today.

What You'll Learn:

• The origins of Black individuals riding waves as far back as the 1640s.
• The cultural significance of surf-canoes in West Africa and their connection to spirituality.
• The pioneering spirit of early Black surfers who defied racial barriers.
• How the legacy of Black surfers laid the foundation for today's diverse surfing community.
• Inspiring stories of contemporary Black surfers who continue to make waves in the sport.
• The intersection of surfing, identity, and empowerment within the Black surfing community.

Tune in to discover the fascinating stories, achievements, and contributions that have shaped the hidden Black history of surfing. Whether you're a seasoned surfer or a curious listener, this episode promises to uncover a narrative that deserves to be heard.

Keep in touch:

• Visit our website. Follow the podcast on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook and watch episodes on Youtube and feel free to donate.
• To learn more about the podcast host Toya, visit ToyaFromHarlem.com. Connect with Toya on Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn

Sources:

• https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2021/08/31/sports/black-surfers.html
• https://blavity.com/blavity-original/6-black-surfers-throughout-history-that-you-should-know-about
• https://agreatdayinthestoke.com/black-surfing-timeline/
• https://www.kcet.org/history-society/surfing-for-freedom-black-surfers-and-reclaiming-cultural-history-in-los-angeles
• https://www.bodhisurfyoga.com/history-of-surfing

Books Sources:

• AFROSURF by Mami Wata: 9781984860408 | PenguinRandomHouse.com: Books. (2021, June 15). PenguinRandomhouse.com. https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/677237/afrosurf-by-mami-wata-foreword-by-selema-masekela/
• Undercurrents of Power: Aquatic Culture in the African Diaspora (The Early Modern Americas): 9780812249897: Dawson, Kevin: Books. (n.d.). https://www.perlego.com/book/731624/undercurrents-of-power-aquatic-culture-in-the-african-diaspora-pdf?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&campaignid=19700019274&adgroupid=146555143616&gclid=CjwKCAjww7KmBhAyEiwA5-PUSiXSeYzrG5eS2JenDX-ejYJWdiYUux3oW5_V_cnKx0WtLcBhDhwnexoCS3gQAvD_BwE

STAY IN TOUCH:

• Visit our website.
• Follow and tag @thatwasntinmytextbook on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, and feel free to donate.
• Sign up for podcast newsletter
• To learn more about the podcast host Toya, visit ToyaFromHarlem.com. Connect with Toya on Instagram and Twitter, or buy her a coffee.

EPISODE CREDITS:
Research and scripted by host Latoya Coleman (@ToyaFromHarlem).
Edited and Mixed by Chris Mann
Music Licensed through Epidemic Sound