The month of February has become an exceptional time to really embrace and support the Black community. While black excellence deserves to be recognized every day, February provides a dedicated period of time to acknowledge the power and resilience of the community. There are several meaningful ways you can celebrate Black History Month, and we listed our top seven.
This month is a reminder to educate yourself as well as explore the history and stories that often go overlooked. These stories play a key role in our history. It also serves as a time to recognize and pay respect to black leaders in our own communities and lives.
Ways You Can Celebrate Black History Month
Here are seven ways you can celebrate and support the community in the upcoming 28 (or 29) days…and for the rest of your life!
1.) Support black-owned businesses
Supporting passionate black entrepreneurs is one way to directly impact the community. Spending at a black-owned business is an impactful form of economic empowerment. As of 2017, African Americans have $1.3 trillion in collective buying power.
Look for black-owned businesses near you that also give back to good causes. Try sites like Black-Owned Biz and Support Black-Owned to locate local businesses. Shopping online is also an easy way to show support.
2.) Spread the word
Social media is a powerful platform and you can utilize it for the better. Once you find a black-owned business you love, spread the word about them. Hit up Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, TikTok, all of the above. Spreading awareness brings more customers and allows for more people to enjoy the business. Use your voice!
3.) Visit a Black History or Civil Rights Museum near you
Educating yourself and honoring the history is a great way to celebrate Black History Month. Invite your friends to go with you.
4.) Educate yourself
Dive into books, history, movies, and speeches to learn about the use of racism and prejudice in our lives. You can then use this knowledge to call out racism and prejudice in your own community.
5.) Donate to a Black organization
Donating to a Black organization provides support to education, criminal justice, healthcare, and economic development. Tell your friends and family to donate now to make an impact.
6.) Support a Black creative
Engage your artistic side and invest in art from a Black creative. This could be a local musician, an art piece, pottery, or more. Get creative!
7.) Read a book by a Black author
Supporting and honoring black voices is always a perfect way to celebrate Black History Month. Diving into great stories is also a beneficial way to better understand the lives of Black individuals of America.
Here is a list of 44 books by Black authors you could read. Grab some coffee, bundle up in your fave blanket, and indulge.