7 Powerful Ways to Observe Black History Month
By Lisa Hurley
Rooted in the past, immersed in the present, looking to the future: here’s how to honor Black culture in February and beyond.
Look Up - As in literally look things up. Educate yourselves about the origin and need for Black History month. Expand your knowledge and cultural competency. As a hint to allies: many things are Google-able. There is a plethora of resources online, as well as here on this list. Where possible, try to avoid requesting additional emotional and intellectual labor from the Black people in your office or social circle.
Look Back - Steep yourself in Black History (which, by the way, is also known as “history”). Visit a museum, in person, or virtually. Visit an actual library, IRL or online. Get familiar with the ancestors from the recent and distant past, who have laid the groundwork for many of the achievements of Black Americans and diasporans today.
Look Forward - Although knowing one’s history is vital, it is equally important to a.) look to the future, and b.) look beyond Black trauma. Learn about changemakers, lightbearers, activists, innovators, and more. A good place to start is the pocstock Future of Black America Top 50 List. Full disclosure: our Editor-At-Large, Lisa Hurley, is on the list, and we couldn’t be prouder.
Look Around - Non-Black people, this one’s for you: Take your head out of your bubble. Expand your circle, as well as your circle of knowledge, and commit to being a better ally. Recognize your privilege. Pass the mic. Speak out against racial injustice. Closer to home: celebrate, promote, respect, and protect your Black colleagues and friends. Keep learning and growing but be sure to put your knowledge and growth into action.
Look Out - As you no doubt have heard by now, close to 15 HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) were targeted with bomb threats on the very first day of Black History Month. We don’t need to explain the intent. So, remain vigilant, and stay safe, Protect yourself and your loved ones as much as you can.
Look In - As a Black person, this is a good time to reflect on how your culture and identities intersect. It is also a great opportunity to turn your gaze inward, away from the often-traumatic experience of existing while Black and focus on your healing. Unsurprisingly, this year’s BHM theme is Black Health and Wellness, both on a macro and a micro level. It’s ok if you choose to spend the month unplugged and unbothered. You do not owe anyone labor. Your value, despite what centuries of enslavement tried to say, is not predicated on your ability to produce. It’s ok for you to prioritize rest and self-care.
Look Down - at your screens! Get ready to be entertained. We have some suggestions for how you can enjoy Black History Month in a more lighthearted way:
Lisa Hurley is a writer, speaker, and activist whose work focuses on anti-racism, texturism, and destigmatizing introversion. She is also a passionate advocate for inclusion, equity, and gender equality. Lisa is the Editor-At-Large of Linked Inclusion™, co-host of Real Talk on Racism, co-host of The Introvert Sisters podcast, and a member of the Black Speakers Collection. She has been quoted in Forbes, Essence, and Fast Company, is a contributing writer for No White Saviors, and was selected as one of pocstock’s The Future of Black America Top 50 Leaders for 2022. Lisa is always interested in sharing meaningful conversations! Feel free to connect with her on social media.
© Linked Inclusion Corporation, 2022. Linked Inclusion™ provides resources to serve people who have been historically excluded. Our goal is to solve for DEI + W: Diversity Equity, Inclusion + Wellness. Visit us online at www.linkedinclusion.com, and join the professional social change management community at www.linkedinclusion.us. "We are stronger, faster, smarter, together."