The Nod

The head nod is a nuanced gesture for acknowledgement of presence and respect. It is our universal way of saying I love you and I’m happy to see you. I see you as the beautiful and attune human being that you are. I see you navigating life the best you can, just like I do. The head nod is simply a sign of recognition, admiration and pride. Welcome to the forever fraternity.

Terrence Lewis

Nodding is expected in situations or environments that the presence of black people and voices are slim or otherwise absent. Often, I find that identities that assume more power and privilege are “unaware” of the ways black people, and people of color in general, have to deal with issues like Racial Battle Fatigue, stereotype threat, etc.  I nod and interpret the nod as an, “I see you, I love you, and I’m here with you,” statement. Though usually exchanged between black men, it is important to know that when women are present one should acknowledge her as well; this involves a more explicit display of respect. There is great importance in knowing that you are not alone in your experience and knowing that, if nowhere else, you can find respect and validation with me (the nodder). If you’re black and know and have learned to love the experiences that come with it, liberate the other black folks in your space, it can mean more than you may know.

Scotty Williams II

Growing up a black male in a place like Oregon is quite the experience. For starters, no one believes that there’s actually black people in Oregon (we exist). The nod to me has a greater role in Oregon than in most places. With Portland being the whitest city in America (literally) it’s hard not to notice when you see a fellow black person. The nod to me signifies a way of acknowledging one another’s presence and saying “I support you.” While I try my best to nod when possible, I also don’t hold it against others who don’t nod. As our daily lives come at us, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by everything on our plate. When a black person doesn’t nod back I take that as a sign of stress upon that person. If you see a “non-nodder” don’t lash out to them with hate, instead reach out to them with love. We as a black people need to bring each other up. A simple nod could be the first step in a long road of cultural healing.

Duane Harris

When you cross paths with another black person, especially in PWS’ (Predominantly White Spaces) there is this unspoken law that you nod to them. The nod is more than just a head gesture, or even a greeting for that matter. It’s like secret handshake to let other black people know we’re here together, I see you. You can be anywhere in the world like “how in the hell did I get here” and see another black person nods at you and you go “Alright cool, at least I’m not alone.”