It’s Black History Month!
Every February since 1976, the United States has celebrated Black History Month. The origins of this celebration can be traced back to “Negro History Week” — an idea started by the African American historian Carter G. Woodson in 1926. Taking a month to recognize and celebrate the invaluable contributions of Black Americans to this country is a wonderful yearly tradition. This year, in 2018, I encourage you to use Black History Month as a way to start practices that celebrate, uplift, and support the Black community all year round. Here are a few ideas that you can do February and every other month of the year!
(Note: some links have been updated for 2019!)
Eat at Black-Owned Restaurants
In my home town of Boston, there is a Boston Black Restaurant Challenge that kicks off in February, encouraging people to eat at four Black-owned restaurants during the month. If you eat out on a regular basis, make it part of your routine to research restaurants that feature Black owners and head chefs. You can also extend this to other local and online Black-owned businesses!
Read books written by Black People
A quick Google search brings up great lists of new and time tested books written by Black authors. Incorporate these selections in to your to-read book queue (everyone has one of those, right?), give your favorites as gifts, and suggest some selections for your book club.
Support Black Candidates
There is a comprehensive and ever-growing list of Black women running for office at Black Women in Politics. Check it out to learn about candidates you can support with your time, your money, and your vote. Additionally, BlackPAC is an independent, Black-led organization that uses the power of year-round political engagement and elections to change economic, justice, and political systems. Supporting their work supports black participation in civic life all year round.
Educate yourself about Black Heroes
There are names that we often think of immediately during Black History Month: Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, Rosa Parks — but what about Claudette Colvin or Matthew Alexander Henson? Spend time this year learning out some lesser known black heroes and sheroes who deserve our recognition every month.
Follow Black People and Publications
There are plenty of spaces to follow leading Black voices online. From Blavity and The Root, to people with amazing social media accounts that will inspire you or make you laugh, technology has made it easier than ever to keep up with Black people who are making waves all year round. Don’t forget to contribute financially to the publications and individuals whose accounts you frequent!
This February is a great time to jumpstart supporting black businesses, learning about important figures in Black History, and creating habits that support Black communities all year round. What are you doing to celebrate Black History Month, and how do you plan to extend that celebration through the rest of the year?
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