Edited by Tanmaya Ramprasad
It’s Black History Month! This year’s theme is “Black Family: Representation, Identity, and Diversity.” Since 1976, Black history is recognized annually in the U.S. and other countries such as Canada and the U.K. An important celebration, it recognizes the role that Black individuals have played in history throughout the world. Here are 5 ways that you can celebrate Black History Month!
- Read a Novel By a Black Author
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Here are some recommendations!
We Should All Be Feminists by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander
The Hate You Give by Angie Thomas
Becoming by Michelle Obama
- Watch a Film Directed By a Black Filmmaker
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I have seen all of these films in class and they are amazing! I would recommend having a marathon with friends over Netflix Party!
Within Our Gates (1920) dir. Oscar Micheaux
Do the Right Thing (1989), dir. Spike Lee
The Watermelon Woman (1996), dir. Cheryl Dunye
Selma (2014), dir. Ava DuVernay
If Beale Street Could Talk (2019), dir. Barry Jenkins
- Donate to an Organization
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There are hundreds of different organizations out there in need of donations, this list is not meant to be exhaustive! Make sure to do your own research before donating.
Mutual Aid Hub https://www.mutualaidhub.org
NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund https://act.naacpldf.org/p/salsa/donation/common/public/?donate_page_KEY=15780&_ga=2.187165864.1602954306.1591044385-2004584457.1591044385
The Loveland Foundation https://thelovelandfoundation.org/loveland-therapy-fund/
Black Lives Matter https://secure.actblue.com/donate/ms_blm_homepage_2019
Black Health Alliance https://blackhealthalliance.ca
- Support a Black-Owned Business
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There are so many wonderful Black businesses that get overlooked! Whether you’re a makeup lover or a coffee connoisseur, try branching out from your usual routine and purchase from Black-owned brands. You will help support smaller businesses and who knows, maybe you’ll find a new favorite!
- Read About Civil Rights History
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Learning about Black history is one of the best ways to understand how today’s racial prejudices have come to be. Try checking out books from your local library or look online for information! Speak to a Black individual in your community! There is so much rich history that is often brushed over by educators that are vital to the understanding of Black history.
No matter how you choose to celebrate Black History Month, remember that the most important thing is to call out racism and prejudice in your own community and to hold others accountable!
Resources:
History.com Editors. “Black History Month.” History.com, A&E Television Networks, 14 Jan. 2010, www.history.com/topics/black-history/black-history-month.