Letter to a Young Black Mathematician: History, Storytelling, and Belonging in Mathematics

Abstract

What does it mean to tell the story of a mathematician? Written as a letter to a young Black mathematician, this article reflects on how stories shape our understanding of mathematics and our sense of belonging within the mathematical community. Through the lens of Hidden Figures Revealed, a project documenting Black mathematicians at The Ohio State University, I discuss humanity, mathematics, and context as three guiding principles for mathematical storytelling. In particular, I reflect on how this framework emerged through archival research, shaped historical narratives, and informed mathematical learning experiences.