By This year with the horrific murders of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, COVID19, and now with #ENDSARS protest in Nigeria, the world has been forced to recognise the reality of racism and mistreatment towards Black people. Many would have ignored it before. However, this year many have decided to commit themselves educating themselves via social media, books, and more.
When is Black History Month 2020?
Black History Month begins from Thursday the 1st of October, to Saturday the 31st of October, 2020.
What is Black History Month?
Black History Month is celebrated in various countries around the world. It began as a way of remembering the importance of Black people and history.
In the United Kingdom, Black History Month was first celebrated in October 1987. It started through the leadership of Ghanaian analyst Akyaaba Addai-Sebo, who had served as a coordinator of special projects for the Greater London Council (GLC).
This post would normally, have covered a list of events to attend for Black History Month. I thought and thought about ways to celebrate Black History Month this year, and I think the best way was to do this is virtually.
Read on to find out a few different ways to get involved with Black History Month this year.
1. Write down what it means to be Black
As a Black woman, I sometimes keep myself busy. So busy that I don’t realise what is happening around me. It sometimes helps me block at the reality of things that are happening to people that look like me. It’s easy to forget how hard you are working as a Black person sometimes. Not to mention the horrific events that have gone on throughout this year – it can all be a bit much!
This year has hit our community the hardest – we are tired, hurt, angry, raging, and did I say tired? Sometimes I feel we are constantly fighting for freedom, equal rights; and to just live in a world that is everyday working against us.
Try and use this month to write something kind to yourself. Talk about why your skin shines, how your hair beautifully stands out in a crowd. Why your melanin is popping? Remind yourself how far you’ve come as a Black individual.
If you are not Black, maybe write the work and struggle a Black person has to go through. It’s not for you to feel upset or guilty about, but maybe time for you to reflect on the fight we are forever fighting.
2. Do Black Pound Month
Black Pound Day simply encourages us to help Black business for a day. However, it doesn’t have to be just one day! Celebrate it the whole month heck make it a lifestyle!
3. Think of ways Black History Month can be brought into the workplace
Let’s be honest the more diverse a workplace is the better the decisions. By taking value in diversity a workforce is required to be innovative and have a much wider perspective on policy, projects and more. It allows the status quo to be challenged.
Work with your team/department to think of how Black History Month can be recognised this month – maybe organise for a speaker to come in, or organise a virtual event?
4. Read and Educate Yourself on Black History
I’m one that needs to get back on this. Start reading books. I’ve been reading Why I No Longer Talk To White People About Race for the longest time. Honestly, there are things in this book that have made me take a step back.
I am learning every single day, read, learn the history and don’t be afraid to ask questions and be corrected.
5. Don’t Pressure Yourself
There seems to be a lot of pressure sometimes to be seen doing something. Own it and celebrate it in your way and time. Being Black is not a fashion its a lifestyle. I wake up Black and go to sleep Black.
Not to mention we are also living in a global pandemic so, please don’t put too much pressure on yourself.
There are so many things you can do to celebrate, so many that I haven’t mentioned. Black Travel Creators are collaborating with Grenada Tourism Board to give content creators a taste of the Island – Grenada. Interested? Sign up here. We are also looking for Black Travel Content Creators that have a UK based audience.
What will you be doing to celebrate Black History Month? Leave in the comments below.
Day 1- Luce over at perselem and
Day 2- Beth over at thoughtsofarealredhead then
Day 3- Jessie over at wandererandtraveller
Day 4- Rhiannon over at mrssleejones and
Day 5- Haley over at introvertedcreativity then
Day 6- Karalee over at talesofbelle and
Day 7- Kim over at chimmyville then
Day 8- Kirsty over at kirstymarie and finally me
Day 9- Adebola over at mybreakingviews
What do you think?