Moving with Purpose and Impact

Black History Month Provides an Opportune Time to Learn More about American History

Black History Month (BHM) is necessary to amplify and elevate the accomplishments of Black Americans. Today, BHM occurs when much change is happening in the United States. Examples include executive orders and messaging that say Black History Month and other cultural celebratory moments should go by the wayside. Additionally, media outlets have amplified corporate movements around DEI, especially downsizing. These reasons contribute to confusion and hesitancy on what to do this Black History Month. However, I encourage all to remember that Black History is more than February of each year and worthy of acknowledgment and celebration in this pivotal year. So, this Black History Month, let’s still remember what the father of Black History, Carter Woodson, intended (an opportunity to give pause to recognize significant achievements of the Black community) for us when Black History Month originated back in 1926.

Stay Abreast of Annual Black History Month Themes and Associated Data Points:

The Black History Month theme evolves each year. This year, the theme is about African Americans and Labor, emphasizing an opportunity to delve into the ties of work and its impact on the Black community. Data states that almost 63% of the United States Labor Pool is Black or African American. The unemployment rates for Black or African Americans come in at 6.1%. Reports say representation at the mid-level and C-suite level in the workplace isn’t significant. Bottom Line: This area still needs a lot of work. As inclusive leaders, we can help by reflecting upon these data points and further exploring the theme. Dive deeply into learning more about Black History, which is American History. Explore the National Museum of African American History and Culture’s digital toolkit to discover cultural education resources.

Learn About Issues Impacting the Black Community This Black History Month

According to the NAACP, Black communities have much to worry about with the looming threat of Project 2025. The organization has created a response toolkit to support threats against civil rights, healthcare, education, and more. A Pew Research study cites Black Americans as seeing inequities in prison systems, court and judicial systems, policing, political systems, and more as areas of concern. There are critical issues that, if not managed appropriately, can fall under the radar in the workplace. Inclusive leaders can be allies on an ongoing basis in getting issues prioritized for action. Go the extra mile in probing what’s weighing colleagues and communities down. Being versed in these issues can help, especially when some may not feel like celebrating Black History or the threats to challenging Black History.

Celebrate and Take Action to Recognize Black History Month

Despite the changing times, Black History Month deserves a celebration, so go forward and celebrate the achievements of Black communities that have spread across the United States. Here are several ways to do so:

1. Workplaces may offer programming in support of Black History Month. Take advantage of these opportunities. Remember, you can still participate if you don’t identify with a culture. Show up as an ally.
2. Individually, inclusive leaders can proactively craft personalized programming for consumption to build education around Black History Month. Make it fun. Movies can be entertaining. Check out what’s available online and in person that centralizes the Black experience.
3. Be a BHM Content Creator. Most of us have an online presence on digital platforms. Use your influence to share insights around Black History Month and engage in conversations on the topic.
4. Places of worship, libraries, and museums are places to seek out and join in on Black History Month celebrations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Black History Month is an opportunity to learn more about American History, amplify the accomplishments of Black Americans, and acknowledge the ongoing struggles and achievements of the Black community. As inclusive leaders, we can take action to celebrate and recognize Black History Month by staying abreast of annual themes and data points, learning about issues impacting the Black community, and taking part in celebrations and initiatives.

FAQs

Q: What is the theme of this year’s Black History Month?
A: The theme of this year’s Black History Month is African Americans and Labor.

Q: Why is Black History Month important?
A: Black History Month is important because it amplifies and elevates the accomplishments of Black Americans, acknowledges the ongoing struggles and achievements of the Black community, and provides an opportunity to learn more about American History.

Q: How can I celebrate Black History Month?
A: You can celebrate Black History Month by taking advantage of programming offered by your workplace, crafting personalized programming for consumption, being a BHM Content Creator, and seeking out and joining in on Black History Month celebrations at places of worship, libraries, and museums.