What Are Some Ways To Celebrate Black History Month?!

Black History Month was officially granted national recognition in 1976 by President Gerald Ford as an evolution of Negro History Week, founded in 1926 by American historian and educator Carter Godwin Woodson and celebrated annually during the second week of February. The purpose of Negro History Week was to bring attention to and give everlasting life to the significant contributions of African Americans who have been seemingly underrepresented or omitted from conversations that influenced American history. Carter said, “If a race has no history, it has no worthwhile tradition, it becomes a negligible factor in the thought of the world, and it stands in danger of being exterminated.”

Today, Black History Month lives on as a vibrant commemoration of the excellence and achievement of African Americans past and present. If you're looking for ways to celebrate this special month, we've listed some of the events going on in and around the area!! Check them out, invite your friends to come along, and have fun learning about the many courageous Black men and women throughout history.

*** CELEBRATE LOCALLY ***
2/8 The 22nd Annual Community Wide Black History Month Celebration
(Bolingbrook)
Free Admission, Free Food, Free Door Prizes and Raffles
https://patc...h-celebration


2/8 African-American History Month Celebration
(Shorewood)
Drop in to the Children's Dept. and celebrate African American History Month with us. Listen to Garrett's Gift, told by Queen Latifah, make a Peace Plate or a Mae Jamison-inspired rocket ship & more.
https://patc...h-celebration


2/10 Black History Month Concert Series
(Chicago)
All 4,200 In-School singers and the world-renowned Voice of Chicago come together for a dynamic educational program and performance honoring black culture. The theme of the concert series aligns with the 2020 Black History Month national theme, “African Americans and the Vote.”
https://ccch...ert-series-9/


2/20 Macy's Celebrates Black History Month!
(Chicago)
Macy's is proud to celebrate Black History Month and embrace and express the diversity of Black people & Black culture.
https://www....s-91819832591


2/21 Black History Month Celebration at Hayes
(Chicago)
Come out and celebrate pioneers in the fields of Civic/Political Engagement, Inventors, Arts & Culture, Sports, Technology, Health & Science. Activities will include performances, cultural interactive displays, and tours.
https://www....bration-hayes


2/22 Black History Month Family Celebration
(Chicago)
Join 'Burst Into Books' for their Black History Month Family Celebration: Chicago Edition! It will be a day full of storytelling, interactive stations, guest presenters and music. Come out to learn about the black history of Chicago past and present. It will be a great time for the whole family. Reserve your spot today!
https://www....s-87260814445


2/23 Black History Showcase/Dance Party & Dinner
(Naperville)
https://www....s-87964563377




*** MORE WAYS TO CELEBRATE ***
No matter where you live or what month of the year it is, these are some excellent ways to show your support and learn more about Black history and present day.

1. Support black-owned businesses

2. Seek out black history in your local area

3. Support influential black nonprofits

4. Learn about unsung heroes of black history

5. Celebrate black literature

6. Become a mentor

7. Support black creatives

8. Donate to a Black organization

9. Host a Black film marathon

10. Read Dr. King’s I Have a Dream Speech

11. Read a biography of an influential Black figure

12. Trace your family history

13. Read a book by a Black author

14. Cook a soul food meal

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