Each year we observe February as Black History Month, a time to highlight and honor the achievements that African Americans have made throughout our nation's history. This month-long celebration provides an intentional opportunity to educate and engage our youth, our families, and our communities about the vast and significant contributions African Americans have made across all aspects of society- civil rights, the arts, science and medicine, education and politics, and American history overall. While we pay tribute to individuals like Martin Luther King, Jr., Rosa Parks, Harriett Tubman, Malcolm X, Fredrick Douglas, Barack Obama, and others, let’s also celebrate our local community “change agents” and advocates who work tirelessly to ensure that our African American youth have equitable opportunities for success and achievement.
As we are encouraged to reflect on Black history during this time, we are not limiting ourselves to the narrow window of the 28 days in February. As youth service providers, we can identify ways to consistently integrate cultural reflection and appreciation. All young people can benefit from learning about their and other cultures, helping them (and us!) to look beyond their own personal experiences and foster cultural competency.
- Where Black History Begins
- 20 Black History Month Activities for February and Beyond
- BLACK HISTORY MONTH RESOURCE GUIDE FOR EDUCATORS AND FAMILIES
- PBS: Celebrating Black History All Year Long
- Black History Internet Scavenger Hunt
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