The festivities may be different this year, but you can still celebrate Black History Month in style.
Every February, the United States celebrates Black History Month, also known as African American History Month. It's an opportunity to honor the notable accomplishments of Black Americans throughout history as well as to reflect on contributions that have been largely overlooked. Whether you're looking to learn more about significant African American historical figures, further immerse yourself in the culture, or share your personal experiences, we've listed a variety of interesting ways that you can participate in this important exchange of information.
Visit an area museum.
History comes alive in museums and many of these institutions have planned special commemorative events surrounding Black History Month. Plan a trip to witness our collective national historical treasures. Don’t want to venture out? No problem! Many museums are currently offering virtual access. The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture, for example, allows visitors to browse its massive collection online by topic, date, or location.
Grab a book.
Libraries and bookstores are overflowing with amazing works of literature, history, and biography. Seek out a book about Black history that you’ve never read to gain a new perspective. Some perennial favorites include The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou, and The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas.
Learn more about The Black Lives Matter movement.
The Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation, Inc. is a worldwide organization that believes in the power of inclusive movement. With a mission to eradicate white supremacy and combat acts of violence, the organization is creating immediate improvements in the lives of people of color. Visit the group’s website to learn more about its history and goals.
Involve your children.
From February 9th to 14th, stop by the Dover public library (35 E. Loockerman Street) during curbside pickup hours to get your Grab & Go kit packed with fun Black History Month activities just for kids. The kits are free but they will be provided on a first-come-first-served basis. There is a limit of four kits per family and they will be available while supplies last.
Support local Black-owned businesses.
At least once a week throughout the month of February, make a point to shop at or explore local companies owned by African American entrepreneurs or that have historical importance. This effort builds positive bonds with area business owners and empowers your community, too.
A big advantage of virtual events is the ability to attend from anywhere in the world.
As long as you have an internet connection, you’re in. When you see an event or workshop of interest, simply register if required or log-in and join in the fun. Here are some interesting virtual Black History Month activities to consider:
- Black-Owned Small Business Workshop: Are you an African American small business owner? You won’t want to miss this fireside chat from 3 PM to 4:30 PM EST on February 8th. Organized by the NEW Women's Business Center, business and finance experts will discuss resources to grow your business. Cost: Free
- Black History Month Community Yoga: If you're used to taking fitness classes over Zoom, this event should be right up your alley. All month long, you can join in the fitness fun and boost your flexibility on weekdays from 10 AM to 11 AM EST. Each instructor will incorporate a different Black History Month theme. Cost: Free
- HerStory: A Celebration of Black Female Artists: Are you an artist or art enthusiast? Join this informative hour-long seminar on February 11th from 7 PM to 8 PM EST. Led by artist Jahné Brown, the event will celebrate the works of black women across a variety of design categories. Cost: Free, but donations are appreciated.
- Managing Change & Grief with African American Families: Join us as we host this timely webinar with a certified counselor, Leslie Holley, MA, LCPC, NCC, on February 16th at 6:30 pm. Cost: Free.
- Black Jeopardy: Trivia fans unite! On February 26th from 7 PM to 9 PM EST, join the fun and test your knowledge. The game will explore Black history and pop culture facts presented in a Jeopardy-style format. Cost: Free
- Stories of Freedom & Justice – A Virtual Black History Month Celebration: Presented by the School Choir of Delaware, this highly anticipated event will be streamed live from Wilmington’s Grace Episcopal Church on February 28th at 4 PM. The program will feature poetry from authors of color, including Paul Lawrence Dunbar and Langston Hughes. Tune in to hear their inspiring stories of freedom and justice. Cost: $25
“A wise nation learns from its past.”
As we reflect on the continued struggle for racial justice, Black History Month is the perfect time to honor life-changing African American achievements and join together to shape a bright, promising future.
If you are seeking additional resources for Black History Month or if you want to learn more about the services we provide, we are here for you. Please contact our caring team anytime.
About Evan W. Smith Funeral Services: Since 2009, residents of Wilmington, Dover, and the surrounding Delaware community have relied on the caring staff at Evan W. Smith Funeral Services to help them through their darkest hours. Family-owned and operated, the company offers an array of elite funeral care services, including traditional funerals, cremations, memorials, pre-planning, and more. With decades of experience in caring for families from all cultural backgrounds and diverse walks of life, Evan W. Smith Funeral Services is committed to creating memorable, uplifting experiences that always exceed expectations. For more information, please visit www.ewsmithfs.com
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