
Russell, who was born in Panama's former Canal Zone in 1934, an accomplished poet and activist established BSD as a day of protest against injustice. Celebrated on the Monday before Election Day, BSD is a reminder to the nation of the collective strength and the potential political power of the Black community. Traditionally, this is a day in which people of Afrikan descent (and supporters) throughout the country abstain from participation in the social, political and economic affairs of the nation. With this peaceful absence, Afrikan Americans, and others, passively oppose racism, as well as social and civil injustices, on a global level. To commemorate the spirit of Black Solidarity, people are supposed to wear all Black (or a Black or silver ribbon to show their support), in-gather, discuss relevant issues, and support Black businesses.