February is Black History Month, a time to celebrate the achievements, contributions, culture, and history of African Americans. Conceived 100 years ago as Negro History Week by educator, Carter G. Woodson, it encouraged the teaching of African American history in public schools. After the Civil Rights movement of the 1960’s, it evolved into the month-long designation that we have today.

Black History Month is crucial for recognizing African Americans’ pivotal contributions to American society. It celebrates their accomplishments and resilience, while educating people about their history. Additionally, it provides an opportunity to challenge racial biases, and foster unity and understanding among people of different backgrounds.

Want to find ways to participate in Black History Month? Scroll down to find events, presentations, and community activities throughout the month of February, to enrich your family’s understanding of Black culture and history.

Black History Month Activities To Do at Home

• Check out the featured Stories to Celebrate Black History Month on Story Corps. This non-profit media organization helps real people tell their story audio stories, podcast episodes, and animated shorts.
• Visit National Geographic Kids and read the story of Black History Month, which also highlights important African American heroes of the past and present.
• Sit down together as a family and watch videos that tell the stories of Black Americans who made important contributions to racial justice. The website We Were Teachers has compiled 60+ Black History Videos Everyone Should Watch, categorized for elementary and middle and high school students.

Find family-friendly events to for every day of the week in the Main Line Parent Calendar!

Lead image by Nazeer Sabree, courtesy of Paradigm Gallery, Philadelphia.

Lead image by Nazeer Sabree, courtesy of Paradigm Gallery, Philadelphia