The Black Panther movie is almost here and I find myself processing emotions that I was not expecting. It’s been an intense couple of weeks but I’ve got to tell you, one of the bright shining lights has and continues to be that I get to see this movie.

Which just happens to come out on Levar Burton’s birthday…

But what really stands out for me is how awesome this movie makes black people FEEL. At a time when many feel there is very little to feel good about (particularly in the US) we have Black Panther.

Now, I am going to help some of you out so that you can’t say nobody warned you. Here are 11 things you need to know to survive the Black Panther premiere and not damage your relationship with black people for years to come.

1. Do not ask anyone why there weren’t more white people in this movie. (Just don’t do it.)

2. If you see someone black sneak food you don’t recognize into the movie theater, say NOTHING! (Let us have this one, please. We’ll return to the regular program of stale popcorn and over priced drinks in time for Infinity War I assure you.)

3. Do not attempt to replicate the accents of any of the “Wakandans” whilst in public. 🤫

4. Do not ask anyone why you can’t find Wakanda as a destination on Expedia for your next African safari.

5. If you are not a person of AFRICAN descent, please for the love of all things beautiful do NOT wear a dashiki to the premiere. (You WIlL get dragged hard on social media.)

6. Before you start talking about how unbelievable or fantastical the storyline is about advanced, non-European technology and culture on the African continent, I invite you to check at least the following three links.

Africa’s Great Civilizations

5 Things You Need To Know About African History Before Watching Black Panther

10 Stunning African Cities

7. If you haven’t read the comics, please don’t try to speak on Black Panther as an expert. Those who love the MCU have waited a long time for this moment and we are sensitive about this sh*t.

8. The Black Panther and The Black Panther Party for Self Defense, two separate things. Go read a book, please.

9. Still emo over the splitting up of King T’Challa and his Queen Ororo Monroe. Shhhh…stop talking to me. 😢 Seriously, six years later and it still hurts. 😭 💔

10. Leave the face paint at home and OFF social media. 😐

11. Be an advocate. This film involved the casting of a large number of highly talented black actors. Enjoy and celebrate this milestone with us and get ready to help crowdfund indie movies who do the same.

Marta C. Youngblood is a writer, education and social entrepreneur based in Lubbock, Texas. For more information on her current projects visit https://about.me/MCyoungblood.