February is Black History Month. During this month, we honor those who stepped forward in times of social injustice to fight for social justice. We listen to the voices that were silenced originally from our history. Even though it is 2021, we as a society still have many issues facing our society regarding equity and justice. Learning and researching people, events, and steps to change our ways we are able to grow in our understanding of social justice for all.
Black History Month began as a week-long celebration in 1926. Since the 1890’s black communities celebrated the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. Dr. Carter G. Woodson was inspired by the 50th anniversary of emancipation and decided to help form the Association for the Study of African American Life and History which sponsors Black History Month. Dr. Woodson dedicated his life to institutionalizing the field of Black history and advocating it be part of formal education. Fifty years after the initial week-long celebration, Black History Month came into existence
Here are some events you can attend virtually to explore Black History Month:
- February 18th: Giants of Racial Injustice by the Library Of Congress through Facebook or Youtube
- February 23rd: Press Play on History: African Americans and World War One hosted by the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
- February 25th: On the Road with Jason Reynolds hosted by the Library of Congress through Facebook or Youtube. Jason Reynolds is the National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature. He has written great novels like Long Way Down, Look Both Ways, and co-authored with Dr. Ibram X. Kendi Stamped: Racism, Antiracism and You.
- February 26th: Spinning the Globe-The History and Legacy of the Harlem Globetrotters through Youtube hosted by the National Archives.
- 28 Days of Black History by the National Park Service
- Slave Narratives from the Federal Writers’ Project by the Library of Congress
- You can find other events on these calendars:
Black History Month Resource List (you must be logged into the Libratory catalog to access this list)
Working Together to Realize Our Dreams
During Black History Month, we strive to learn about other people’s experiences and how we can be compassionate. Working with, for, and through others is crucial to realizing our dreams, increasing our potential, and advocating for everyone. When you understand this and constantly seek the positives from relationships with others, your performance in every area of your life improves. People who live great lives embrace everyone and constantly seek ways to serve and connect with those they encounter.
Watch this video to learn more about Black History month, its impacts on society, what it means for people of color, and the importance of learning, connecting, and learning about other people’s experiences.
For an activity, have everyone in your family trace his/her hand on paper and then cut them out of paper. Decorate each hand in a way that highlights who they are and how unique they are. Display the hands in a common area of your home. Include people in your home but also extended family members (aunts/uncles, cousins, grandparents, etc)
