9 Ways to Celebrate Black History Month

“We must never forget that Black History is American History.” – Yvette Clark, U.S. Congresswoman

February is not all about Valentine’s Day, it’s also Black History Month. There are many ways we can celebrate Black History and Culture, especially by educating ourselves and our children about it. See the list below for some suggestions.

 

1. Host a Black Film Marathon

There are so many great films that showcase black history, not only dramas, but also documentaries and comedy movies. Let’s honor black actors, directors, and all black professionals of the film industry.

2. Visit a Black History or Civil Rights Museum

The African American Museum of Iowa, in Cedar Rapids, is a statewide museum dedicated to preserving, exhibiting, and teaching Iowa’s African American history.

Here are some online events happening this month. Click on each event below to see the date and register. Make sure to check our events calendar for the full list.

‘Wonders of Buxton’ Presentation

10th Annual African American Children and Families Conference

20th Annual Freedom Fund Banquet

Iowa’s Black Migration – Into, Around, Out Of and Back Again

Endless Possibilities: Iowa’s African American History

4. Talk to Black elders about the past

5. Learn about unsung hero of Black History

6. Host or join a “read a Black author book” discussion group

For example, ‘Their Eyes Were Watching God’ book club & discussion, organized by the City of Iowa City. Register and join via Zoom.

7. Host a “soul food” virtual cooking class

Or simply cook African American dishes for your family.

8. Listen to Black music

Motown and Blues, for example. Check these playlists.

Spotify

• Motown Greatest Hits
• Motown Classics
• Blues Classics

Amazon Music

• Sounds of Motown

9. Support Black-Owned Local Businesses