Ways to honor Black History Month as a family

It’s Black History Month, and the team at Bend invites everyone to celebrate the contributions, creativity, and resilience of Black communities. This is a time to lift up Black voices, honor the impact of Black leaders throughout history, and engage with authentic stories that shape history - all year long. Together, we can foster a more inclusive, connected, and informed society. 

Ideas for celebrating Black History Month as a family

• Head to the local library. Take a trip to the local library together and check-out books that tell stories of historical figures who helped to shape the Black community. Encourage your child to learn about inspiring people like Martin Luther King Jr., Maya Angelou, Rosa Parks, Dorothy Vaughn, and Bessie Coleman. Take a deep dive into the origins of Black History Month and share all that you’ve learned together. Remember that it’s important for kids to see book characters of different backgrounds and ethnicities regularly, not just annually, so be sure to diversify your bookshelf at home on a consistent basis.
  
  
• Create a new family tradition. Cook a meal together that highlights the rich culinary traditions rooted in African heritage, volunteer at a Black-led nonprofit, read books by Black authors or engage in discussions about Black history and its impact today. You can also set shared goals as a family to support racial equity year-round, whether through advocacy, education, or community engagement.
  
  
• Get creative. Pull out the art supplies and have your child draw a picture or create an artistic piece inspired by someone they admire in the Black community. Take time to learn stories of great historical figures and talk about the ways that they empower each of you.
  
  
• Celebrate Black artists. Honor the rich cultural heritage of black artists this month and beyond. Is there a film, poem, book, or album that you can share with your family to honor  the Black community? See if your community offers Black dance company performances, check for live music venues that showcase Black talent, or museums featuring Black artists.
  
  
• Support a Black-owned business. Get familiar with local businesses in your area that are owned and operated by Black community members. Maybe you can dine out at a Black-owned restaurant or buy birthday gifts for loved ones at a Black-owned retail shop? 

As you celebrate Black History Month together as a family, continue to think about ways that you can incorporate different cultures and experiences into your lives year-round. Embracing these experiences can deepen understanding, foster meaningful connections, and provide inspiration every day.

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