5 Ways to Celebrate Black History Month

While racism has deep roots in society, there have always been Black voices and Black personalities who have swum against the waves. Celebrating Black History Month is a way to honor their efforts while drawing inspiration from it all.

1. What is Black History Month?

Even though Black History Month started as a means to recognize and honor the contributions of prominent Black figures from history, it has evolved into more of a celebration now.

Black History Month 2022 will be in February. And by celebrating it, you can spread a message of triumph over hate while also having a lovely time with family or friends.

Black History Month facts and trivia

• Black History Month first started in the U.S. back in 1915.
• It was started by Carter G. Woodson, also known as the Father of Black History.
• It initially went by the name of Negro History Week to recognize prominent Black figures from history.
• Black History Month is celebrated annually in February.
• Black History Month U.K. began to be celebrated only as late as 1970.
• The celebration has a unique Black History Month theme to honor significant events and trends every year.

How it started

While topics such as racism and Black rights are relevant globally, Black History Month first started in the U.S. back in 1915. Carter G. Woodson, a prominent historian, was responsible for coming up with the idea of celebrating the Negro History Week in February.

What initially started out to recognize significant Black figures and their work soon transformed into Black History Month. Today, it continues to be a celebration observed throughout the world every year.

When is it celebrated?

As the name speaks for itself, Black History Month celebrations are a month-long. In most parts of the world, such as the U.S., U.K., and Australia, it continues to be celebrated every year in the month of February.

This month includes birthdays of both Abraham Lincoln, America’s first President who played a crucial role in the Civil War, and Frederick Douglass, who was another prominent Black rights activist at the time. Thus, besides being a celebration of Black History, it also honors the efforts of such historical figures in fighting for Black rights.

Why is Black History Month still relevant today?

Society isn’t still free from racism and other such stereotypes. It is common for Black people to still deal with racist mindsets, which makes their contributions to society all the more significant and inspiring.

Celebrating such triumphs against racism is a part of Black History Month. In fact, the month highlights a human spirit that applies to every individual existing in society at large.

As society keeps evolving and trends keep shifting, the month stays just as relevant. And with new ways to celebrate Black History Month, you can be a part of it, even sitting at home or going about your usual business.

2. How to celebrate Black History Month at home

The world is much more connected and accessible than it ever was. This means that you can be a part of the Black History Month celebration for 2022 while doing what you love. Below are some easy and fun ways you can celebrate Black History Month 2022 from home and with your loved ones.

#1 Learn about noteworthy black figures and their contributions

You can be a part of Black History Month celebrations by learning about people's lives, such as Madam C.J. Walker. Being one of the first female Black millionaires America has ever had, her story has a lot of insight and motivation to offer for all. By learning about and honoring their contributions to society at large,

You don’t need to venture far for an exciting dive into Black History. With options such as virtually visiting and touring Black History museums, your Black History Month 2022 can be fun and exciting. Besides, who doesn’t love a fun and interactive history lesson?

#2 Attend Black History Month events online

No matter what style of celebration you like, you can easily find Black History Month events suitable for your liking. Search for these online to explore the exciting ways you can celebrate Black History Month 2022.

You can watch movies or hold motivating discussions about Black activists or Black voices with your small circle of friends. Or, if you feel more adventurous, you can also enjoy public gatherings, streams, or events online. Either way, such a Black History Month celebration will be like going to a carnival – but in the comfort of your home.

#3 Support emerging black-owned businesses

Today, Black rights are generally much more accepted and acknowledged. But for many, it continues to be the normality, albeit in more subtle ways.

You can support local Black-owned businesses to feel more like a part of the Black History Month celebration. Since it will be for the products or services you already consume, you won’t be going out of your way - but you will still feel involved.

#4 Watch movies and read books by Black Voices

If you are looking for a comfortable or easy way to celebrate Black History Month, then what better way than to do it at home and with your family.

Watching movies or documentaries made by black people will help you understand their perspectives stemming from a racism-plagued society. It will even offer deep insight into their underlying psychologies and prevalent mindsets at the time.

Other ways, such as making a Black History Month playlist for your workplace, will do the same. Or you can read books written by Black authors if you want your Black History Month celebration to be in solitude. Sharing social media content and posts can be another great way to celebrate while spreading awareness about it, whether online or to your kids. And the best part – it will be fun!

#5 Donate to anti-racist charities

Donating to organizations and non-profit agencies for Black rights is a simple and effective way to show your support.

You don’t need to look around to find the charities or groups whose specific cause you believe in. Doing it online is a great way to support any trusted charity group or cause and celebrate Black History Month.

3. Get inspired this Black History Month 2022

With so many ways to celebrate Black History Month, you can have a lovely time with your family and friends without having to step out of your schedule. This is what the celebration lies in – making Black History part of your routine.

Don’t be surprised to find yourself feeling motivated or inspired in your work or life, from stories of Black activists and Black voices that you discover this Black History Month.