February 1 marks the start of Black History Month, and TikTok is recognizing the impact of Black creators. The app’s February iniatives include a central hub that spotlights Black creators, multiple in-person and live events, and a list of Visionary Voices who are turning heads with their short-form content.
This is the first time that TikTok has published a list of Visionary Voices. It previously applied that title to a pair of dinners — one each for Black and Latinx creators — that brought together tastemakers from across the app. In this instance, Visionary Voices shouts out creators who are “originating viral trends” and “elevating Black Joy.” TikTok also honors trend originators through the Discover Lists it puts out at the end of each year.
The Visionary Voices honorees are broken into three categories: Creators, Disruptors, and Business Owners. The first category includes influential armchair historian Kahlil Greene, the second recognizes innovators like “queen of the self esteem” Chikybombom, and the third highlights the commercial efforts of videomakers like Danessa Myrick.
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These Voices and other members of #BlackTikTok will be featured on a hub that will highlight the innovators of cultural trends. Creators of color have previously spoken up about the ways they are overlooked on social platforms, and TikTok is committed to addressing that issue. Beyond the #BlackTikTok hub, the app is also touting a #BlackMusic initiative that will recognize “the sounds that move culture.”
TikTok’s recognition of diverse innovators will also be exemplified by a February 24 live stream featuring “Black chefs, artists, musicians, and more.” The app will also invite creators of color to attend another Visionary Voices IRL event.
By lending visibility to a marginalized group, TikTok is continuing the trend it started during other heritage months. It has amplified Latinx, Indigenous, and Jewish creators at different points on the calendar. For more info about its Black History Month plans, head to the TikTok Newsroom.
