Black History Month is a time to honor the rich history and contributions of Black people to society. It’s also a time to acknowledge and celebrate the resilience and strength of the Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) community. In addition to celebrating their accomplishments, it’s important to recognize those in the BIPOC community who are also in recovery from alcohol and drugs. Celebrating their recovery and their commitment to healing not only supports their journey but also helps to break down the stigma surrounding addiction and mental health issues in the BIPOC community. By acknowledging and celebrating all aspects of the BIPOC experience, we can work towards a more equitable and inclusive society.
For example, Samuel L. Jackson has spoken about being sober for over 25 years. Make sure to check out our review of his documentary The Fix. The Fix, Samuel L Jackson Docuseries, Drugs & Addiction in the USA (thesobercurator.com)
Check out our curated list of amazing humans in the BIPOC community who are in recovery:
- Rapper and actor Common has been sober since his early 20s. 10 Rappers Who Are Drug-Free (liveabout.com)
- Rapper and actor J. Cole has also shared his experience with abstaining from alcohol in his music. Rappers That Struggle With Addiction | EcoSoberHouse
- Darryl McDaniels AKA DMC (of Run DMC) Check out our #QUITLIT Review of his book “Ten Ways Not to Commit Suicide” #QUITLIT Review: Ten Ways Not to Commit Suicide by Darryl McDaniels of Run DMC « The Sober Curator
- 50 Cent has never been a big drinker or drug user. 15 Sober Rappers Who Don’t Drink or Do Drugs (ranker.com)
- Kendrick Lamar is sober and an advocate for drug-free living 15 Sober Rappers Who Don’t Drink or Do Drugs (ranker.com)
- Tyler, the Creator has a reputation for being a wild card, but some fans may be surprised to learn that he is also straightedge.15 Sober Rappers Who Don’t Drink or Do Drugs (ranker.com)
Continuing the curated list of BIPOC in recovery to be celebrated:
- Ice-T “I also think being always sober gave me the advantage,” said Ice-T on Twitter in 2016 15 Sober Rappers Who Don’t Drink or Do Drugs (ranker.com)
- André 3000 went cold turkey when it came to quitting drugs and alcohol after a terrifying experience. 15 Sober Rappers Who Don’t Drink or Do Drugs (ranker.com)
- Kid Cudi became an alcoholic and cocaine addict after becoming a famous rapper, but he was able to give up both vices cold turkey. 15 Sober Rappers Who Don’t Drink or Do Drugs (ranker.com)
- Gucci Mane sobered up while serving time in prison. 15 Sober Rappers Who Don’t Drink or Do Drugs (ranker.com)
- Lil Yachty has taken to Twitter to talk about his sobriety. 15 Sober Rappers Who Don’t Drink or Do Drugs (ranker.com)
- Vince Staples “I will never do drugs,” he stated during a 2015 Reddit AMA. 15 Sober Rappers Who Don’t Drink or Do Drugs (ranker.com)
- LeCrea “I’m not bitter I’m sober. I’m not hateful I’m hopeful,” he said on Twitter in 2016. 15 Sober Rappers Who Don’t Drink or Do Drugs (ranker.com)
- Joe Budden credits Eminem with helping him to get sober. “Life started to become unmanageable at that point, so it was time,” he said. 15 Sober Rappers Who Don’t Drink or Do Drugs (ranker.com)
BIPOC Women of Color in Recovery to be celebrated:
- Taraji P. Henson – The actress and mental health advocate has spoken publicly about her experience with depression and anxiety, as well as her family’s history of addiction. Taraji P. Henson Opens Up About Mental Health, Past Suicidal Thoughts (shape.com)
- Kerry Washington – The actress has spoken about her sobriety in interviews and has credited her yoga practice with helping her stay grounded and focused on her recovery. Kerry Washington: I Don’t Drink Alcohol, Citing “Empty Calories” (usmagazine.com)
- La La Anthony – The TV personality and actress has spoken publicly about her decision to stop drinking and her commitment to leading a healthier lifestyle. La La Anthony on Her Heart Condition, Co-Parenting With Carmelo, and Finally Putting Herself First | SELF
- Demi Lovato – The singer and actress has been very open about her struggles with addiction and mental health and has used her platform to raise awareness and advocate for others who are struggling. Demi Lavota Dancing with the Devil Docuseries (thesobercurator.com)
- Mary J. Blige – The Grammy-winning singer has spoken publicly about her journey to sobriety and has credited her faith and spirituality with helping her stay on the path of recovery.
Last but not least:
- Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson – The actor and former professional wrestler has spoken openly about his past struggles with depression and alcoholism, and how he turned his life around through fitness and spirituality.
- Craig Ferguson – The comedian and TV host has been sober for over 25 years, and has used his platform to raise awareness about addiction and mental health issues.
- Pharrell is one of the rare gems in the rap industry who has no affiliation to smoking or drinking whatsoever. Rappers That Struggle With Addiction | EcoSoberHouse
These are just a few examples of the many men and women of color who have shared their stories of addiction and recovery publicly, and who continue to inspire and support others who are on the path of recovery. Please note, at the time this article was published we cannot confirm everyone on this list is currently still active in recovery, given that for most people, it is a one day at a time effort.
Check out this curated list of some of our fav sober BIPOC influencers on IG:
- @soberisdope & @popbuchanan
- @strengthintime
- @raised_from_the_dead_
- @thejaychase
- @blackrecoverymatters
- @blackandsober
- @blackgirlsober_
- @kiolaraines
- @soberblackgirlsclub
- @blackmentalhealthmatters_
- @blacksoberteacher
- @soberblacksociety
- @gettingyourishtogether
- @chrisconnected
- @theblacksobrietyclub
- @alikagambill
- @sobrietyinblack
- @12facesofsober
In conclusion, celebrating BIPOC celebrities (and influencers) and their recovery from drugs and alcohol is important for several reasons. First and foremost, it helps to break down the stigma surrounding addiction and mental health issues in the BIPOC community and promotes a culture of acceptance and support.
It also provides a source of inspiration and hope for those who may be struggling with addiction or in need of support. By highlighting the achievements of BIPOC individuals in recovery, we can help to create a more inclusive and supportive society, where everyone is valued and respected for who they are. Ultimately, celebrating the resilience and strength of the BIPOC community in all its forms is essential for creating a more just and equitable world for all.
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Resources Are Available
If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulties surrounding alcoholism, addiction, or mental illness, please reach out and ask for help. People everywhere can and want to help; you just have to know where to look. And continue to look until you find what works for you. Click here for a list of regional and national resources.
