What is Black History Month? 🤔
February is Black History Month, when we recognize and celebrate Black people’s history, culture, and achievements.
Perhaps the most important contribution Black people have made, especially in the United States, has been to act as a catalyst in the ongoing struggle for racial equality for all people. Unfortunately, racial and other forms of discrimination still exist at work as well as outside of the workplace.
Why should you recognize Black History Month at work? 🙌🏾
Since February comes at the start of a new year, Black History Month provides an excellent opportunity for companies to examine their diversity and inclusion policies concerning hiring, retaining, and promoting Black employees.
As you consider your company culture and inclusion efforts, remember the importance of the concepts “diversity,” “equity,” and “inclusion.” The United States is one of the most diverse countries in the world. Does your corporate culture display that same level of workplace diversity?
The Black struggle for justice and equality has been a long and arduous journey, marked by countless acts of resistance, resilience, and determination. These struggles have not only been significant for the Black community but have also served as a catalyst for broader movements seeking justice and equality for all marginalized groups.
The fight for racial justice and equality has inspired and influenced efforts to address systemic discrimination and oppression faced by various communities, including Indigenous peoples, Hispanic & Latin American individuals, Asian Americans, and other people of color.
Ready to celebrate Black History Month? Check out these ideas — all originated and run by Black artists and educators — below:
Top 5 Black History Month ideas for work 🎉
1. Support Black art 🎨
Black History Month is a great time to celebrate Black talents in all industries, artists included! When was the last time you went to the museum to learn about the revolutionary works of Black artists?
Now, more and more institutions are offering digital programming. For example, the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture has a digital “searchable museum” full of history lessons and virtual tours.
Why is this a great idea for Black History Month? Studying art by Black artists provides a unique opportunity to inspire and teach through unique storytelling.
How to get started 👉 Learn some African-American history in Exploring Black Art!
2. Celebrate Black excellence with a party 🎵
Your Black History Month celebration should be just that – a celebration. Make it a company-wide effort that engages everyone. Invite compelling guest speakers such as artists, educators, or figures from the Civil Rights Movement.
Cater the event with food from local black-owned restaurants and create an eclectic playlist featuring music by Black artists. You can also organize a trivia game centered around Black History Month.
Why is this a great idea for Black History Month? Throwing a party that highlights Black culture is a great way to build inclusivity and promote bonding!
How to get started 👉 Celebrate Black History Month with Black History & Culture Trivia!
3. Give back to the community 🤝
Companies can also celebrate Black History Month by meaningfully impacting lives other than those of their employees. Your company can make a financial contribution to a historically Black College or a nonprofit organization that fights for equality for the black community, such as:
- The NAACP: America’s largest, and oldest, civil rights organization
- Black Girls Code: Educational nonprofit organization breaking barriers for Black girls in the tech industry
- The National Urban League: Nonpartisan civil rights organization that provides economic empowerment and educational opportunities to underserved communities
Why is this a great idea for Black History Month? Supporting organizations that provide support and mentorships to the Black community is a great way to economically empower Black communities. You can also support Black-owned businesses through subcontracting or the establishment of joint ventures.
How to get started 👉 Encourage employees to share the local or national causes that are grabbing their attention and need volunteers or donations!
4. Start a virtual book club or movie club 🍿
Storytelling is a timeless way to learn about different cultures. Your company can help your employees celebrate and learn about Black history by giving them books by Black authors.
Do you have a team of movie-buffs? If yes, consider gathering for regular viewings of movies written, directed, and starring Black artists. To increase employee engagement, you can discuss the themes of the movie you watched after it ends.
Why is this a great idea for Black History Month? Gathering for critical discussion is not only a great professional development opportunity, but it also helps employees of all cultural backgrounds become more well-versed in the stories of Black people.
How to get started 👉 Learn real-life stories of Black leaders in film in History of Black Cinema!
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Celebrate Black History Month with Confetti 🎉
Although February is just one month, we should celebrate Black History Month and promote inclusion and cultural diversity all year.
Promote diversity and an inclusive environment by regularly planning meaningful diversity activities that can educate, inspire, and strengthen bonds between your team members. Don’t forget to make your diversity and inclusion activities as engaging and enjoyable as possible. And, of course, give space to your Black colleagues to lead these plans as well!
Ready to book your event? Check out Confetti's Black History Month collection today!
