Happy Black History Month!
This historic month is a celebration of black voices, stories, accomplishments, culture, and legacy. Join us in uplifting black folks this month and make a habit of continuing to do so each and every day of the year. Here are a handful of actionable ways you can get involved throughout the rest of February and all year long:
Learn About the Origins of Black History Month:
The Association for the Study of African American Life and History shares the story of Carter G. Woodson--the second African American (after W.E.B. Dubois) to earn a PhD from Harvard University--and his journey to launching the first ever celebration of “Negro History Week,” the precursor to Black History Month:
Actionable Ways to Celebrate Black History Month:
The NAACP compiled a list of 28 ways to celebrate during Black History Month and all year long:
Books to Read to Celebrate Black History Month:
Courtesy of Shondaland, here is a non-exhaustive list of noteworthy books to read to celebrate Black History Month throughout February as well as throughout the rest of the year:
Black Youth-Centered LGBTQ+ Organizations to Donate to:
The It Gets Better Project is a nonprofit organization with a mission to uplift, empower, and connect lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer youth around the globe. They have compiled a list of organizations specifically serving Black queer communities throughout the United States. Give back this month and throughout the year by donating, or reach out to these organizations and use their services if you’re in need:
Explore Articles on The Oprah Magazine:
In celebration of Black History Month this year, The Oprah Magazine published a host of fun and informative articles uplifting black folks and their accomplishments, from past to present. The curation ranges from pieces on influential civil rights leaders to little known black history facts to the best Black movies on Netflix right now, and many more. Visit https://www.oprahmag.com/ to browse.
Celebrating the history and achievements of Black Americans is vital and necessary not only in February, but all year long. For black youth in the foster care system, this celebration and uplifting of Black Americans presents a hopeful, empowering narrative, as they may not have the stability of permanent role models. We must make a conscious effort to continue these habits each and every day to foster inclusivity for each other, for our children, and for our future.