Making Connections: Celebrating Black History Month
February is designated as Black History Month. Throughout the month, we celebrate the achievements, culture, and lives of Black people. Considering the current climate of social unrest and racial injustice across the nation, we would like to take the time to highlight the importance of this upcoming month as a way to promote education and understanding as we seek to navigate these challenging times and beyond.
Black History Month: Brief Background
Black History Month, or African American History Month (AAHM) has it's roots in the 1920s. In 1926, an organization focused on the achievements of persons of African descent headed by Carter G. Woodson sponsored "Negro History Week" in the United States. February was chosen as the date of the event to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. Since the observance's inception, people all over the nation (and in other countries) have participated in celebrations, performances, and organized groups to foster awareness regarding the Black experience and amplify Black voices. With the impetus of the civil rights movement of the 1960s, increased interest in Black culture developed, spurring an even greater desire for the events inspired by Woodson, and by the mid-1970s, February become Black History Month.
Honoring Black History Month
We believe that it is essential for all people to understand that Black history is American history. Especially as we all grapple with the present realities of pervasive hate and intolerance, it is in this moment that we must all pause and examine ourselves and reflect on the actions that we can take to make a positive difference in our communities, nation, and world.
Although we are dealing with a global health crisis, there are still ways that you can safely observe AAHM. As mentioned above, an important first step we can all make towards honoring others is taking personal responsibility to educate ourselves. Below are some ideas on how you can prepare to participate in AAHM this year.
Support a Black Business
Patronize goods and services from a Black-owned business. You will not only be supporting the owner but boosting the economy as well!
Donate to a Black Organization
A host of Black organizations do tremendous work in the fight for justice and equality and in bringing awareness to relevant issues. Become a part of this vital work by donating to the cause.
Read a Book by a Black Author
You don't have to wait until AAHM to read a title by a Black author but it's a great opportunity to use the month to introduce yourself to names and voices with which you may not be familiar.
Donate to an HBCU
Historically Black Colleges and Universities have educated some of the nation's finest graduates for over one hundred fifty years (including our vice president)! Consider advancing this legacy by donating to an HBCU.
Learn About an Unsung Hero of Black History
Take some time to discover the rich contributions of Black persons by researching and learning about someone who is not typically mentioned during AAHM but whose story is just as deserving of recognition and honor.
Support a Black Creative (Artist, Musician, Poet, etc.)
Immerse yourself in Black art culture by purchasing, amplifying, and displaying the work of Black artists.
Study the African Diaspora
Learn about people of African descent across the globe – their culture, contributions, and significance in society.
Call out Racism and Prejudice in Your Community
Make an effort to stand up for what is right and stand against what is wrong by speaking out with all the means at your disposal.
Make a Connection
Black history month is not just about one month and one specific group of people. It is about the efforts each of us makes daily to connect with one another.
At Elite Home Health Care, we strive to connect with families through the care we provide to their senior loved ones. We employ skilled, compassionate caregivers who strive to meet the needs of every individual. To learn more about our services, please visit Elite Home Health Care today.