Edited by Mikkel Hyldebrandt
As February comes to a close, it’s important to reflect on the lessons and inspiration gained from Black History Month. More than a commemorative period, Black History Month is an opportunity to deepen our understanding of Black culture, contributions, and resilience. But the work doesn’t stop when the calendar flips to March. The impact of Black history extends beyond 28 (or 29) days, and there are many ways to carry the mindset of Black History Month throughout the year. Here’s how you can continue engaging, learning, and supporting Black communities beyond February.
1. Commit to Continued Education
Black history is American history, and learning about it should be an ongoing process. Keep your curiosity alive by reading books by Black authors, watching documentaries, or following historians and activists on social media. Consider adding works by Toni Morrison, James Baldwin, or contemporary authors like Ibram X. Kendi and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie to your reading list. Listening to podcasts such as 1619 or Code Switch can also provide valuable insights into historical and modern racial issues.
2. Support Black-Owned Businesses
One of the most impactful ways to celebrate Black history year-round is by supporting Black entrepreneurs. Make a conscious effort to shop at Black-owned stores, dine at Black-owned restaurants, and invest in Black-owned brands. Websites like WeBuyBlack and Official Black Wall Street can help you discover businesses that align with your needs and values.
3. Advocate for Racial Justice
Black History Month highlights the struggles and triumphs of Black communities, but systemic inequities persist. Stay engaged by supporting organizations that fight for racial justice, such as the NAACP, the Equal Justice Initiative, or local grassroots movements. Use your voice to advocate for policy changes, vote in local and national elections, and hold leaders accountable for advancing racial equity.
4. Celebrate Black Art and Culture
Black art, music, and culture have shaped history in profound ways. Keep celebrating Black creatives by attending film festivals featuring Black filmmakers, visiting museums with African American exhibits, or streaming music from Black artists across genres. Engaging with Black art is not only a way to appreciate talent but also a way to understand the narratives and emotions that shape Black experiences.
5. Amplify Black Voices
Continue to listen to and uplift Black voices in your community and beyond. Share articles, artwork, and perspectives from Black creators on your social platforms. Engage in conversations about race, privilege, and history with friends and family. Being an ally means being willing to learn, unlearn, and support the ongoing work of Black activists, scholars, and everyday individuals making a difference.
Black History Month serves as a time of reflection, education, and celebration, but the lessons it teaches should not be confined to one month. By making a commitment to continuous learning, economic empowerment, activism, cultural appreciation, and amplifying Black voices, you can ensure that the values of Black History Month remain a vital part of your everyday life. Keep the momentum going and honor Black history not just in February, but every day of the year.