FIVE THINGS TO DO…

… BEFORE, DURING AND AFTER BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Over the last year, I’ve not only seen the focus on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion wane, but also witnessed more efforts to actively dismantle DEI programs in public and private spaces including education, government and corporations. The good news is, DEI isn’t going away and we can and should feel empowered to continue to create the world that we want, reimagining systems that serve just some, and transforming them into systems that serve all.

With that in mind, on this eve of Black History Month, I’ve pulled together concrete actions each of us can take not just in February but all year long. I’ve included links to resources and hope you’ll join me!

1. Spend at Black-Owned and Black-Led Businesses

   • Two of my favorite Instagram accounts also have online shops: Art is Bond and Oh Happy Dani

   • Find a local Black Chamber of Commerce to explore businesses near you

   • SBO - Support Black Owned - Business Directory

2. Support Black Artists

   • The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) has named the 2024 theme of Black History Month: African Americans and the Arts

   • 16 Black Artists to Know, National Gallery of Art

   • Peleton’s Black History Month Playlist 2023 (Fingers crossed for a 2024 version!), Spotify

   • On my must-watch list: Origin directed by Ava Duvernay and Rustin starring Coleman Domingo

3. Volunteer with and Invest in Black-Led and Black-Serving Nonprofits

   • 20 Black-led nonprofit organizations that shoild be on your radar, Givebutter

   • Grassroots, Black and Giving: How Philanthropy Can Better Support Black-led and Black-Benefiting Nonprofits, Young, Black & Giving Back Institute

   • SupportBlackCharities.org

4. Learn about Black History

   • 28 Days of Black History, Anti-Racism Daily

   • A History of Racial Injustice, Equal Justice Initiative

   • Black History, Freedom & Love, Masterclass

5. (Re)commit to Combatting Anti-Black Racism and Advancing Equity

   • Do the Work! An Anti-Racist Activity Book, W. Kamau Bell and Kate Schatz

   • Being Antiracist, National Museum of African American History & Culture

   • Advancing Equity and Racial Justice Through the Federal Government, The White House