Kendrick Lamar’s Performance in the Context of Black History Month

The Super Bowl is one of the biggest events in American culture, bringing together sports, entertainment, and an audience of millions. But beyond the touchdowns and halftime spectacles, the Super Bowl has also become a platform for deeper social and political messages.

This year, Kendrick Lamar’s halftime performance stood out as a profound statement of Black expression, resistance, and pride. In the middle of Black History Month, on one of the grandest stages in the world, Lamar didn’t just entertain—he made history.

His performance wasn’t just a musical interlude; it was resistance wrapped in rhythm. Layered with symbolism, each choice speaking to the broader themes of Black pride and struggle.

Lamar’s presence at the Super Bowl was a nod to the very history that Black History Month seeks to honour. Every lyric, every movement, and every piece of symbolism carried meaning.

One of the most striking moments came when his dancers formed a fragmented American flag. It was a visual metaphor for a divided nation, a country that prides itself on unity yet continues to wrestle with deep racial and political fractures.

Kendrick Lamar’s Legacy of Protest

It was a reminder that Black artists have always used their platforms to challenge oppression, from James Brown’s Say It Loud – I’m Black and I’m Proud to Beyoncé’s Black Panther-inspired halftime show in 2016. Kendrick stood in that lineage and made it clear: we are still here, still fighting, and still unshaken.

Unlike many Black artists who adapt their language or tone to appeal to mainstream audiences, Lamar performed exactly as he would in any other space. His lyrics remained sharp, his delivery powerful, and his presence unapologetic. This was a direct challenge to the notion that Black artists must conform to be accepted on major platforms.

If there’s one thing we know about Kendrick Lamar, it’s that he never performs without purpose. His performance was not just a setlist of hits—it was a statement. And that statement was clear: Black people will not shrink, conform, or be silenced.

A Historic Win for Black Leadership in Sports

Beyond the halftime show, the game itself made history in a way that felt like poetic justice. Watching a Black quarterback lead his team to victory is powerful on its own, but knowing he was backed by an all-female management squad made it even sweeter.

In a world where Black men and women are often overlooked, undervalued, and underestimated in leadership positions, this win was a statement in itself.

For decades, the quarterback position has been regarded as a symbol of leadership and intelligence—qualities that, historically, many did not associate with Black players.

There was a time when Black athletes were deemed fit to run fast and hit hard but not to lead a team. This narrative has been slowly dismantled over the years, but every Super Bowl win by a Black quarterback is another nail in the coffin of those outdated beliefs.

And, then the fact that this quarterback was managed by an all-female team. In a sport—and a world—where women are still battling for equal footing, this was a massive win. It’s no secret that some of the loudest voices in MAGA circles continue to push the idea that women belong in traditional roles, not in leadership positions.

So, to see a team led by women outsmart, out-strategise, and outplay their opponents on the grandest stage of them all? That was a victory for every woman who has ever been told she’s not capable!!

Why This Matters Beyond the Game

For those who say “keep politics out of sports,” they’ve clearly forgotten that sports have always been political. From Muhammad Ali refusing to fight in Vietnam to Colin Kaepernick taking a knee, athletes and entertainers have continuously used their platforms to challenge injustice.

This Super Bowl was no different. It was a moment of resistance. A moment of celebration. A moment of cultural affirmation. But most importantly, it was a reminder:

• That Black people will continue to take centre stage—whether on the field, on the stage, or in the boardroom.
• That Black leadership, talent, and strategy are forces to be reckoned with
• That our presence in these spaces is not just tolerated—it is necessary

While some people may argue that Black History Month is unnecessary or “divisive,” moments like this prove why it remains essential.

Too often, Black achievement is overlooked, dismissed, or seen as an exception rather than the rule. Black History Month serves as a time to highlight these victories and remind the world of the contributions, resilience, and brilliance of Black people throughout history.

10 Black LinkedIn Creators You Must Follow

February isn’t just a month of reflection—it’s a time of celebration, a moment to spotlight the brilliance, resilience, and undeniable influence of Black communities.

This year, Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl performance wasn’t just entertainment; it was a statement—a powerful reminder that Black history isn’t confined to the past. It’s unfolding right now in real-time, shaping culture, industries, and the future itself.

Black excellence is everywhere—from the biggest global stages to boardrooms, classrooms, and yes, even right here on LinkedIn.

That’s why I’ve curated a list of 10 Black LinkedIn creators you need to follow in 2025. These voices don’t just tell stories; they shape narratives. They challenge industries, break barriers, and take up space unapologetically in arenas where Black presence has often been overlooked.

These creators are innovators, thought leaders, and change-makers. Their insights, experiences, and cultural expressions are a testament to what it means to thrive in spaces where they were once told they didn’t belong.

So, if you’re looking for inspiration, leadership, and a fresh perspective that challenges the status quo, look no further. Here’s your chance to follow and engage with some of the most brilliant minds making waves in 2025

1. Sharon Hurley Hall Founder of Sharon’s Anti-Racism Newsletter, SHHARE Anti-Racism Community and Author, I’m Tired of Racism. Subscribe and support Sharon’s newsletter for insights, curated reading lists, useful resources, and interviews with people making a difference everyday!
2. Ernest Crim III is an Emmy-nominated producer, public teacher, antiracist educator and hate crime victor, who uses (Black) historical narratives to empower and educate through a culturally equitable lens. Downloadhis free course for Black History Month and beyond and look out for his educational videos.
3. Flavilla Fongang, a multi-awarded serial entrepreneur, author and international keynote speaker. Named Top 100 Black Powerlist recognised by J.P. Morgan. Founder of Black Rise, The First Global Black Ecosystem connecting Black professionals, entrepreneurs and businesses with global opportunities and networks. If you are entrepreneurial, her story definitely worth a follow!
4. Abi Adamson “The Culture Ajagun”🪬 Founder and director of The Culture Partnership, I work with some of the world’s best-known companies, such as Google, Spotify, and Sony Music, to deliver game-changing positive culture strategies and training sessions that foster belonging, inclusion and psychological safety. JoinAbi in Beyond the Beat: Why Kendrick’s Super Bowl Performance Shook America’s Cultural Foundations”
5. Kay Rufai has created a safe space for Black Boy Joy. Founder of The S.M.I.L.E-ING Boys Project ― the acronym stands for Send Me Inspiring Loving Energy ― creates a safe space for boys to be their full selves, opening up dialogues around topics like aesthetics, money, health and masculinity. I love the smiles he shares of Black boys walking confidently across my newsfeeds.
6. Priscilla Mudiaki EMEA Creator + Community Manager at LinkedIn. Nurturing the greatest Thought Leaders & Industry Experts. Give her a follow if you are a Black creator
7. Ngozi Cadmas Founder of Happiworksthe UK’s leading Anti-racist and culturally sensitive workplace mental health platform. Her content for Black women is 🔥
8. Erin Corine Johnson Founder & CEO of Hola Magnolia & The Identity and Belonging Coach a multi-faceted space devoted to creative development and community building through coaching, mentorship, collaborative experiences and cultural exchange. Check out the Accomplice Accelerator
9. Dr Rhamie Gifford CEO of Rockstone Consultancy. Leadership and inclusion consultant. Also, one of my favourite academics his newsletter is a must-read The Audacity of Leadership really driving meaningful change.
10. Michelle Raymond Corporate Leadership Trainer and Coach with a focus on transformational leadership in the corporate sector. The Diverse Business Summit supports small and diverse business owners to help them power through to the next stage of their growth.