The Legacy of Card Games in Black American Culture: A Celebration of Tradition & Community
“Going All the Way”
For generations, card games like Bid Whist, Bridge, and Spades have been more than a pastime in Black American households—they’ve been a cornerstone of our culture. From family cookouts to community centers, these games have brought people together, fostering connection, laughter, and, yes, a bit of competitive energy.
Growing up, card games were always a part of the fabric of our gatherings. There was always a deck of cards on hand, waiting for enough players to sit down for a game of Spades. It wasn’t just about playing—it was about learning.
How did you learn how to play Spades? Did someone teach or show you how? For many of us, playing cards was a rite of a brotherly or sisterly passage, an initiation into an unspoken but deeply understood tradition. Learning the rules and mastering the game wasn’t just about fun; it was an opportunity to prove yourself, earn bragging rights, and, in some cases, test skill and alliances when the cards were dealt.
But Spades, Bid Whist, and Bridge matchups are more than just games. These gatherings symbolize our resilience, sense of community, and ethnic and cultural pride. Whether it’s the banter against familial opponents at the table or the celebratory laughter at a family reunion, these games connect us to each other and to the legacy of those who came before us that is simply unmatched.
Honoring This Tradition with Black American Varsity Playing Cards
As we celebrate Black History Month, we at Sincerely, Black Love wanted to pay homage to this deeply rooted tradition by creating something that embodies the spirit of these games—paying homage to the Introducing the Black American Varsity Playing Cards Collection: a unique edition deck of cards that celebrates the cultural significance of card games in Black American history while honoring the legacy of excellence and community.
These cards are more than just a tool for play—they reflect empowerment and pride. Every design element speaks to the joy of gathering with loved ones and the significance of celebrating who we are as a people. They remind us of the nights filled with laughter, the strategic rivalries, and the shared moments of connection that make our culture so rich and beautiful.
Why This Collection Matters
This collection is more than just a tribute to a pastime. It’s about reclaiming our history, correcting stereotypes, and restoring the narratives of our ancestors. Playing with these cards honors their resilience and celebrates the traditions they passed down to us.
Our enslaved ancestors endured immense hardship yet found ways to create joy and connection through traditions like card games. Games such as Whist, which evolved into Bid Whist and Spades, symbolized resilience, offering a way to strategize, foster community, and assert humanity despite oppression.
Similarly, among the first Black men to secure stable jobs post-Emancipation, Pullman Porters became icons of dignity and progress. Despite facing systemic racism, they shaped Black culture by spreading card game traditions and infusing them with unique phrases like “running a Boston.” They also played vital roles in the early Civil Rights Movement, bridging communities across the country.
We honor their sacrifices and contributions by celebrating these legacies, ensuring their stories endure. Through efforts like the Black American Varsity Playing Cards, we reclaim these traditions, paying tribute to the perseverance and ingenuity that define our heritage. Every game we play keeps their legacy alive.
So, this is not just about the cards—it’s about making a difference. A portion of the proceeds from the Black American Varsity Playing Cards will support initiatives that support Black American communities and promote education about delineation and reparations.
Celebrate Our Legacy
The Black American Varsity Playing Cards are available now for $25 on the Sincerely, Black Love website. Whether playing Spades, running a Boston in Bid Whist, or enjoying time with family and friends, this deck is the perfect way to celebrate Black culture and history.
This Black History Month, let’s honor the traditions that have brought us together for generations. Let’s continue elevating our culture and making history—just as our ancestors did.
Ready to play your part in preserving our legacy? Shop Here to order your deck today.