February is Black history month, a time in which people across and beyond our country take extra effort to learn about and celebrate the rich legacy and history of Black individuals and communities. By celebrating Black history month, we have a chance to take a fresh look at our collective history and lift up stories that have often been suppressed and to ponder how our future might be more just for all people, especially Black people who have suffered undue injustice and unequal treatment since the beginning of our nation. We also have a chance to look at the stories of Black joy and celebration— remembering that Black communities in America and beyond have done more than just struggle against injustice but have rich stories of life and love that deserve to be elevated in our collective conversations, not just in February but all year long.
Here is a very-much-not-comprehensive list of ways you might learn more about Black history and get involved with justice work in our city and nation.
Read about Black History Month 2021:
- The official theme of Black History Month 2021 is “The Black Family: Representation, Identity, and Diversity.” Learn more.
- Learn more about the history of Black History Month.
- Learn more about our denomination’s celebrations of Black History Month.
- Learn more about our denomination’s Reconciliation Ministries.
- Find a book or movie to watch that celebrates Black culture and joy without centering trauma:
Learn about Black history in Kansas City:
- Learn about the history of segregation in the Kansas City metro, primarily through its real estate through this 90-minute driving tour.
- Learn about the history of segregation in Kansas City that still impacts lives today
- Learn more about this Black-owned educational technology company making a difference here in Kansas City.
- Learn more about AltCap, an organization here in Kansas City working towards economic justice.
- Learn more about Embracing Our Differences, a justice-oriented art project for people across the nation.
- Shop or grab food from one of the many Black-owned businesses in a list below:
- Find out more about G.I.F.T. (Generating Income For Tomorrow), an organization that seeks to close the racial wealth gap in KC by providing grants to Black owned businesses in Kansas City, especially those in low-income neighborhoods
- Find a list of recommended Black Authors from 41 Action News.