Post by Enroot

During #blackhistorymonth, Enroot is featuring Black Leaders who have contributed greatly to our society. Today we're highlighting Rhiannon Giddens. Rhiannon Giddens is a folk musician who sings and plays the fiddle and banjo. Many people assume that American banjo and fiddle music was invented by and is mainly played by white people. However, Black people played a huge role in the creation of these American music styles. Rhiannon is a musical leader because she reclaims and celebrates the tradition of folk and bluegrass music that is written and played by Black people. Rhiannon tells important stories of both hope and oppression through songs to make sure they are remembered. Her songs include true stories about African people who were enslaved and other historical events in America’s fight against racism. She has won many awards, including a MacArthur Genius Grant.