Fostering Social Engagement During Black History Month
February is Black History Month! Celebrated in the United States for more than 50 years, Black History Month provides the Aging Network with many opportunities to celebrate the achievements and contributions of Black Americans and raise visibility to further awareness throughout the year.
Your organization can engage older adults, people with disabilities and caregivers in meaningful ways this month to show support, spread awareness and increase knowledge of the many contributions Black Americans have made to the country. This blog post highlights resources, opportunities and examples that your organization can use to promote social connection during Black History Month.
Activities to Engage in Black History Month
Organizations can incorporate activities commemorating Black History Month into their February social engagement programming. Examples to engage consumers include:
Start conversations through book clubs or group discussions. After reading books, articles or stories from the past, participants can reflect on history and reminisce about shared memories.
Hold creative events to facilitate connection and celebrate heritage. Consider hosting activities such as meals, movies, trivia games, art, music or cooking classes, or poetry readings that honor the culture of Black Americans.
Organize virtual or in-person visits to museums or historic locations. After the visits, set aside time for discussion among participants.
Encourage consumers to join the conversation on social media. The hashtag #BlackHistoryMonth will help your followers see what your organization (and others!) are sharing.
Organize a way for older adults in your community to give back by volunteering to serve others. You can clean up a public space, mentor a young person or help those who are food insecure.
Opportunities and Resources to Support Organizational Efforts
Consider incorporating ideas from these resources into your recognition events.
The National Parks Service provides a daily calendar with activities and education on Black History.
The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture provides a social media toolkit including stories, virtual programs and a searchable museum.
The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) hosts an annual Black History Month Festival. The festival will provide virtual events all month with a focus on this year's theme, Black Resistance. To learn more about the origins of Black History Month in the United States, check out ASALH’s website.
28 Days of Black History offers daily emails that share cultural artifacts, actionable steps and discussion questions to incorporate into conversations with consumers.
For more information on Black History Month and resources including videos, photos and exhibits, visit blackhistorymonth.gov.