Welcome to NegroFolklore
Folklore has always been an essential part of my life, shaping my understanding of culture, history, and identity. My deep-rooted interest in Black folklore stems from a lifelong fascination with storytelling, oral traditions, and the ways in which myths and legends preserve the voices of those who came before us. This passion has led me to explore not only African American folklore but also the rich traditions of the African diaspora and other cultures I have come across during my lifetime.
This website and blog were born from an independent study, an academic endeavor that allows me to immerse myself in the folklore of Black Californians while expanding my research skills and presenting them through digital platforms such as: this blog and website, YouTube, Instagram, and eventually, a podcast. At the heart of this project over the course of my independent study is the goal of documenting and analyzing the supernatural, historical, and cultural narratives that have shaped Black communities in California. From ghost towns and Hoodoo practices to tales of migration and resilience, I want to highlight the diverse folklore that continues to influence Black identity today.
As I move through the spring semester, my plans for this website will evolve alongside my studies. My focus, for now, will include:
- Researching and Documenting Stories: I will collect and analyze folktales, oral histories, and supernatural legends from Black communities across California.
- Exploring the Role of Spirituality and Hoodoo: Investigating how Hoodoo and other African diasporic spiritual practices have influenced folklore in California.
- Engaging with Scholars and Community Historians: Conducting interviews and seeking insights from those who study and preserve Black folklore and culture in California through their respective careers.
- Building an Online Archive: Creating a space where readers can access articles, resources, and research on Black folklore in California.
This semester marks the beginning of a larger journey—one that will continue to grow as my academic and personal exploration of folklore deepens. My hope is that this blog will serve as both a resource and a conversation starter, encouraging readers to engage with and celebrate the rich traditions that have shaped Black communities in California and beyond.
I invite you to join me in this journey of discovery, storytelling, and preservation. Through this platform, I aim to document, analyze, and share the narratives that have long been woven into the fabric of Black culture. Whether you are a researcher, storyteller, or simply someone curious about folklore, I welcome you to explore and engage with this ever-expanding collection of stories and traditions.
NegroFolklore 