10 Ideas to celebrate Black History Month:

How do you celebrate Black History Month? Comment below so we can build an exhaustive list of ideas that we can revisit all year long.

Black History Month was originated by Dr. Carter G. Woodson. It began as a week long celebration but morphed into a month-long celebration. There is talk and petitions about moving this month to June but for now, we celebrate the impact of those before us who paved the way for greatness. Imagine moving from slavery to becoming President or Vice President of the United States. As inclusive leaders, we are on a journey to learn more about one another so that we can communicate and collaborate to continue to pave the way for the next generation. Join me in celebrating Black History always.

One year our family visited a celebration of the Stepping Stones Museum in Norwalk, Connecticut. What a wonderful experience it was? I captured a video of beautiful poetry reading/dance that stayed with me.

This year's Black History month focuses on the theme of Black families. There will be many highlights of the Black Experience, so please stay alert to take advantage of learning opportunities from universities, libraries, retailers, media, and your organizations. If you're feeling overwhelmed, take a break and pick a few ideas from the list below.

10 Ideas to celebrate Black History Month:

1. Make an intention to celebrate Black History Month differently in 2021. That means if you glaze over the month and focus on Valentine's Day or a Day off in the office, then you have work to do as an inclusive leader.

2. Participate in BHM Celebrations (more than social opportunities) in the workplace.

3. Support black-owned businesses regularly. The Official Black Wallstreet website maintains a directory of Black Owned Businesses. Don't stop there. Google Black-Owned Businesses in your area and intentionally seek to support these businesses.

4. Tune in to your television. Intentionally seek out shows that support learning more about the Black Experience. If you have Netflix, Hulu, or Amazon Prime, use the search feature to type in Black History. Watch and discuss with your family, friends, and co-workers.

5. Check out your library listings for Black History Month offerings. Since we are very virtual these days, I imagine the consumption choices are endless. You have to take the time to engage.

6. Read or listen to a book about Black History. Seek out books that highlight activities that deepen the learning. Here's an example that you may still find in your local library.

7. Check your podcast library. Update with a selection of black podcasts to expand your cultural competency around the black experience. The podcast entitled Black History is an option.

8. Look for and attend a virtual summit celebrating Black Culture.

9. Challenge yourself to post on social media about Black History. Not just this month but from now on. Not sure what to post?

   1. Post what you are learning and how you plan to apply the lessons in your life.

   2. Ask what others are doing to celebrate. Engage in responses.

   3. Post about what you're doing (reading, watching, attending, etc.)

   4. Comment on posts about Black History Month

10. If you would like to learn more about the Black experience, check out the book, A Collective Breath.

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