February is Black History Month, first started by Carter G. Woodson, a founder of the Association for the Study of African American History, the Associated Press reports.
Woodson worried that black children were not being taught about their ancestors? achievements in American schools in the early 1900s.
If a race has no history, if it has no worthwhile tradition, it becomes a negligible factor in the thought of the world, and it stands in danger of being exterminated. Woodson said.
In and around Seattle, there are many ways you can honor Black History Month. Here are some suggestions:
Support Black-owned businesses
Search for local Black-owned businesses on directories like Intentionalist. (Plus check out their In-TEN-tionalist Guide to Black History Month and their Ready. Set. Spend Like It Matters campaign where you get rewarded for showing up for Black-owned small businesses throughout Black History Month.) Other directories include Support Black Owned and Black Owned Business Network
There are also apps to help you find Black-owned businesses: Official Black Wall Street and Buy Black App
Attend Black History Month events in our area
Chamber member Northwest African American Museum has a great list of events for Black History Month
The Stranger has a great list of local events you can attend as well
Get to know local Black leaders on our podcast, Under Construction
Adriane Brown: If you can’t work through people, you can’t get your job done?
Solynn McCurdy: “When you have power, you have the ability to change the rules”
Former Seattle Mayor Norman Rice: I think people were waiting for a voice that wasn’t being heard
Shaunta Hyde: Finding little ways every single day to give back should be part of your core ethos
Amelia Ransom: Know where you stand. Know where you are.
Support Black-owned media in our region
South Seattle Emerald
Learn about Black history in our region
Visit Chamber member Northwest African American Museum
Learn about African American heritage in Washington
Support Black nonprofits
Local organizations include:
Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle
Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute
Sundiata African American Cultural Association
Black Heritage Society of Washington State
Central District Forum for Arts & Ideas
National organizations include:
Seattle King County National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP)
Trans Women of Color Collective
Celebrate Black literature and media
Books for adults:
9 Books To Read For Black History Month 2020, As Chosen By Goodreads Users
15 inspiring books to read in honor of Black History Month
27 Books to Read in Honor of Black History Month
Books for kids:
8 Stellar Picture Books for Black History Month 2020
21 African-American History Books to Read with Your Kids
28 great Black History Month books for kids
100 Best Children’s Books for African American History Month
Movies: