A new, permanent memorial in downtown Fredericksburg at the site of the city’s historic slave auction block will provide historical context to what happened there 175 years ago.
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Memorial planned for site of now-removed Fredericksburg slave auction block
Throughout February, WTOP is celebrating Black History Month. Join us on-air and online as we bring you the stories, people and places that make up our diverse community.
The historic slave auction block that stood at the corner of William and Charles Streets in downtown Fredericksburg, Virginia, was relocated to a nearby museum in 2020.
Now, a new, permanent memorial at the intersection will provide historical context to what happened there approximately 175 years ago.
“We know of at least 20 sales of enslaved people that took place on this corner,” said Gaila Sims, historian and lead consultant of the Auction Block Memorial Installation. “This intersection was the largest site for sales of enslaved people here in Fredericksburg, right before and during the Civil War.”
During years of research, Sims said at least 300 enslaved people were auctioned at the intersection. “We have found the names of about 100 of those individuals.”
In the years leading up to the Civil War, Sims said Virginia’s largest economy was the sale of enslaved people. “We know of at least 500,000 people who were sold from Virginia farther south.”
In the early 21st century, a debate launched over whether the auction block should remain in place or be removed.
“In 2017, that’s when traction around removing it finally took hold, and that was because of Charlie Frey, Jr.,” Sims said. “At the time he was the only Black member of city council here in Fredericksburg.”
Frey witnessed a mock slave auction at the corner of William and Charles.
“He saw a group of young, visibly intoxicated men, all white except for their one Black member. And he saw the white men force, playfully, the Black member of their group on top of the auction block,” Sims said.
Frey’s bill to remove the block failed, 6-1, which prompted a citywide discussion, Sims said.
“In 2019, the city council brought it to a vote again, this time they voted 6-1 to remove it and take it to the Fredericksburg Area Museum, which is one block away,” Sims said.
After legal challenges, the auction block was removed in June 2020, less than two weeks after George Floyd was killed in Minneapolis. Floyd’s killing prompted nationwide protests, including in Fredericksburg.
“It was actually graffitied. There’s three different colors of graffiti on the auction block now, and we don’t know if it was the same person who had three different colors or if it was several people, but it was very clear that the auction block had become a really potent symbol of racial injustice,” Sims said.
New memorial at same location
After extensive research, community engagement and the selection of EO Studio to lead the design process, the Fredericksburg Area Museum and the City of Fredericksburg are moving forward with a permanent memorial installation, which will encompass all four corners of the intersection at William and Charles.
Sims said the group will be presenting the final concept to the Fredericksburg City Council on March 10.
Why build a memorial at the site of a painful period in Fredericksburg’s history?
“The majority of the community, Black and white of all perspectives, seem to want, and not only want, but need, something here, and that’s what we’re going to do.”
“They want to see something here that honors the past, that can help us heal in the present, that can be there for the future to recognize not only what happened at this corner, but also how this object became a catalyst for real community and civic participation,” Sims said.
The installation will include timelines, spanning from the auction block’s 1843 installation to its 2020 removal.
Among the displays will include an inverted obelisk, standing over 19 feet tall. “Imagine the Washington Monument turned upside down and in black brick,” Sims said.
“Embedded on the sides of the memorial will be the names of the enslaved people we found who were sold here,” as well as a symbol representing those people who have not been identified.
The intersection itself will be slightly raised to sidewalk level to draw attention to the memorial and slightly slow traffic. Bronze and black bricks containing timeline entries will be visible.
“We anticipate this installation will truly transform this corner, but not in a way that will significantly impact the businesses or cause a detriment to the area,” said Sims.
“Rather, we think this will be a really important gathering space for people in Fredericksburg to think about the history of the auction block, specifically, but also to really think about African American history, and the community conversations that led to the auction block’s removal.”
The costs of building the new memorial hasn’t been finalized, as it is still in the design phases. According to Sims, funding will be sought from a combination of private fundraising, grants and partner contributions.
At this point, the installation is tentatively planned for 2027.
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On Feb. 19, the Conservation Fund is teaming up with the Washington Association of Black Journalists for an event called “Protecting Legacy Places: A Black History Month Conversation.”
Throughout February, WTOP is celebrating Black History Month. Join us on-air and online as we bring you the stories, people and places that make up our diverse community.
You can learn about history through books, videos or museums, but there is something significant about visiting the place where it happened.
“There’s a truthfulness when you go to these spaces that you can only experience when you’re there,” said Phillip Howard, director of the Legacy Places Initiative at the Conservation Fund. “I think there’s value in being able to touch history and being able to be in a space where history happens.”
Howard works specifically on preserving iconic civil rights sites across the country. The Conservation Fund helped protect Maryland’s historic Black beaches, where artists such as Duke Ellington, Ray Charles and Aretha Franklin performed like at the famed Carr’s Beach.
The Elktonia-Carr’s Beach Heritage Park honors that cultural and musical history. The group has also protected land on Maryland’s Eastern Shore connected to Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad.
“I get to work in spaces and work to preserve spaces that are important and tell important stories in American history,” he said. “If there is properties or spaces in Maryland, Virginia, D.C., that are in need of protection, that’s a conversation that we would love to have.”
On Feb. 19, the Conservation Fund is teaming up with the Washington Association of Black Journalists for an event called “Protecting Legacy Places: A Black History Month Conversation.” It will be held from 6-8 p.m. at the Thurgood Marshall Center for Service and Heritage in Northwest D.C.
“This is an opportunity to raise those voices, uplift those spaces, really get the word out that this work is happening and that it needs to be bigger,” Howard said. “If we don’t do something, those spaces are going to be lost.”
The special guest at the event is Jannette Howard-Moore. She was 15 years old when she marched from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, in 1965 with her family, and was beaten on the Edmund Pettus Bridge by police. She will talk about being part of a pivotal moment in history.
Howard said it’s a unique opportunity to hear directly from a Civil Rights foot soldier, while celebrating and honoring her.
“Hear from a person who was actually there at a moment that changed the world,” Howard said, calling it a “beautiful story of family, of sacrifice, love, strength, courage, of bravery.”
It’s the first time the Conservation Fund is partnering with the Washington Association of Black Journalists for this event, but Howard hopes it’s not the last.
“We’re all just trying to make sure that this history is not lost,” he said.
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ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Before the end of segregation, there were two St. Petes: a white one and a Black one.
What You Need To Know
Segregation and Jim Crow laws restricted where the Black community could go in St. Pete
The Black community created a mostly self-contained community around 22nd Street South
It offered houses, businesses, schools, healthcare and entertainment
Groups now strive to preserve the history of that area
Laws restricted Black residents from going to certain portions of the city except for work, limiting them to designated areas and neighborhoods.
The most famous of those neighborhoods is the one centered around 22nd Street South, often called “The Deuces.”
“It was more than a street. It was an ecosystem. It was our ecosystem,” said Latorra Bowles, executive director of Deuces Live. “It was the only place African Americans thrived.”
It was also a self-contained area that tried to cover all facets of life.
Housing
The neighborhood offered housing options for African Americans, though early housing was built without formal planning. In 1941, the Jordan Park Housing Complex opened. It incorporated 446 apartments, the state’s largest public housing endeavor to that time.
“He knew African Americans needed decent and affordable housing,” said Basha Jordan Jr., whose grandfather, Elder Jordan Sr., donated the land for the project. The housing complex is named in Jordan’s honor.
Businesses
At its peak, more than 100 businesses lined 22nd Street South and some of the streets that ran parallel and perpendicular.
“Everything we need is in the corridor,” Bowles said. “You have your small businesses, you have your restaurants, you have your hotels, you have your clubs.”
Churches
Numerous churches lined the streets in the neighborhood, especially along 9th Avenue South, which intersected with 22nd Street South. The city notes that in 1939, 19 of the city’s 123 churches were located in the 22nd Street neighborhood.
Schools
Jordan Park Elementary opened in 1925, a segregated school located on 9th Avenue South. Gibbs High School, the first all-Black high school in St. Pete, opened in 1927.
Healthcare
Mercy Hospital was established in 1923, one of the few healthcare institutions that accepted Black patients during the segregation era. Jim Crow laws precluded some hospitals from treating Black people, while prejudice stood in the way as well.
Entertainment
The RoyalTheater opened in 1948, one of just two theaters that African Americans could attend in St. Pete.
Down the street, the Manhattan Casino Hall had launched in 1925. It was the focal point of entertainment, socializing, and music in the neighborhood. It was even a well-known stop on the Chitlin’ Circuit, a network of performance venues safe for African Americans to play during the segregation era.
“This was a place where African Americans could come, feel at peace, feel human, in the midst of segregation and racism that was running rampant in the city,” Jordan said, sitting underneath a statue of his grandfather that stands on 22nd Street South.
Deuces Live is attempting to “preserve, promote and revitalize” this corridor, preserving its history while promoting a rich future.
“It’s extremely important to preserve the history of this area because if we don’t tell the story, it will be rewritten or untold,” Bowles said. “If we don’t tell our story, no one will.”
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — When it comes to public art, the Tampa Bay area is no stranger to mural-covered walls and, at one time, mural-covered streets.
In 2020, new artists emerged with painting things like the Black Lives Matter street mural in St. Pete and similar murals in Tampa.
A number of those artists were Black artists who say representation was crucial during a time of racial unrest in this country and that representation is just as important now.
For artist Jade Jackson, all she sees is color when she thinks of what her art brings to the world. For her, representation plays a big role in her work.
“It’s not something abstract or nature-based. I like painting women and women of color. A lot of my artwork and paintings I’ve done and sold, they’re usually Black,” Jackson said. “I’m really into, like, the sci-fi fantasy anime world, and I love redoing things sometimes in a way where it shows us. And so I think that representation is important in regards to younger people seeing us.”
Jackson said she applied that same intentional approach in 2020 when she was asked to paint three words that mean so much to her. “Black Lives Matter. So, I had the S. So Black Lives, I had the “S” in the middle for lives,” she said.
The project in front of the Woodson African American Museum in St. Pete was her first mural.
“I was like, ‘Let me do something that comes natural for me,’ and so I approached it with joy and excitement and curiosity. I was, ‘Like, let me paint something I enjoy,’ and I thought if people see that and feel inspired, that’s great,” she said.
Two years later she painted over the Black Lives Matter mural and helped paint the Black History Matters street mural. Then, in 2025, she watched as it was painted over following a directive from the Florida Department of Transportation, citing safety hazards and restrictions against ideological or political markings on roadways.
The move sparked an emotional response from a lot of people, but Jackson said she was more worried about the broader picture.
“I care more about what they’re doing to us than them painting over the mural,” she said.
A popular street mural in Tampa was also inspired by the racial reckoning in America back in 2020. Mark Anthony, along with his son, was one of the artists there that day.
“I felt some type of way with it, but it was also just, I think, the camaraderie of the artists and now seeing those artists from that period how they’ve grown,” Anthony said. “Shout out to that day. I mean it was a great moment to see community come together all at once. So, to me, it was an amazing experience.”
It’s an experience that now lives on through photos and memories because it was also painted over after FDOT directives.
Jackson believes the message in the murals belongs in public view.
“I think we can still have a place for it, and I think it is a strong reminder. We have things that remind us of the Holocaust and 9/11, things that are important, and Black history is a part of this country and this culture and important to all of us,” she said.
Libraries, city hall and the courthouse are just some of her suggestions for a new mural to replace the street art. And she’s hoping someone is listening.
Guion Bluford, the first African American to travel into space, became one of the space community’s most influential figures.
What You Need To Know
Guy Bluford was the first African American to fly in space
He started his career as a pilot in the Air Force
He became an astronaut for NASA in 1979
Bluford developed a fascination with flight at a young age, and by high school he knew he wanted to become an aeronautical engineer.
Early life
After earning his college degree, Bluford joined the U.S. Air Force and received his pilot wings in Jan. 1966 at the early age of 24.
He soon became an instructor pilot and later entered the U.S. Air Force Institute of Technology, where he earned a master’s degree in 1974 and a Ph.D. in aerospace engineering in 1978.
After his 1974 graduation, he served at the Air Force Flight Dynamics Laboratory, initially as a deputy and eventually as branch chief of the Aerodynamics and Airframe Branch.These achievements led to his selection for the NASA astronaut program in 1978.
It’s safe to say he never lost sight of his childhood dreams.
Becoming a legend
The crew of Space Shuttle 8 shown in front of launch pad 39-A at Kennedy Space Center, Merritt Island, Florida on August 5, 1983, with the tip of the orbiter Challenger showing in the background. Ready for a August 30 launch are left to right: Mission Specialists Dale Gardner, Guion Bluford, Dr. Bill Thornton, pilot Dan Brandenstein and commander Richard Truly. The crew was going through STS-8 countdown test on Thursday, and are wearing blue suits with pilot Brandenstein wearing a red tee shirt underneath. (AP Photo/Phil Sandlin)
After a year of training, Bluford became an official astronaut in Aug. 1979.
Four years later, on Aug. 30, 1983, he flew his first mission aboard STS-8. That inaugural flight was brief but notable, pioneering techniques for nighttime operations and deploying the Indian National Satellite.
After 145 hours in space, the crew returned to Edwards Air Force Base on Sept. 5.
Over the next 10 years, Bluford became the second, third and fourth African American in space, logging over 688 hours.
After NASA
In 1993, Bluford left NASA and retired from the Air Force to become the Vice President and General Manager of the Engineering Services Division of NYMA Inc., in Greenbelt, Maryland.
After several more high-end jobs, he went on to become the President of Aerospace Technology in Cleveland, Ohio, a job that he still holds today.
Bluford never stopped learning or pursuing the next level of his career. A brilliant figure in the space and engineering communities, he became a leader and role model for many African Americans.
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PLANT CITY, Fla. — This month, we take time to celebrate Black History Month, and one church in Plant City is doing that through an educational program known as “Exploring the Untold Stories of Black History.”
What You Need To Know
Terrie Strachan says the program includes members of the church to portray the stories told
Many of the stories shared are not taught in school
Inside Mount Olive Baptist Church in Plant City, history is being shared.
Organizers present the program every February to honor Black History Month.
Terrie Strachan started the program back in 2013. “I always try to explore new avenues of Black history,” she said.
It’s a history that some may not even know about. The story told on the first Sunday of this month was about Joseph Ligon, who was the nation’s longest-serving juvenile offender.
“(Trying) to familiarize our youth with things that they never heard of, not just our youth, even our adults,” she said.
Strachan said it’s important to immerse the youth in stories they rarely learn about in school.
For 11-year-old Cortlyn Fisher, it’s a program she looks forward to every year.
“It reflects on what people went through back in the day, and it helps me learn about the people,” she said.
The stories that are shared are also reflected in the sermons of the church.
Ted Taylor took part in the program. He said it’s a story that he never heard of, that’s helped him reflect on the importance of celebrating Black history.
“Informative, enlightening and spiritual to the church,” he said.
Every Sunday throughout the month of February, a new story will be portrayed.
Strachan said it’s one way she’s hoping to preserve Black history in her community.
“If I can just continue to do that and touch my members and touch people in the community about topics that I bring forth, I’d be doing my job, and I’d be fulfilling what God wants me to do,” she said.
Honoring Black history and how its shaped the lives of many one story at a time.
On February 22, Mount Olive Baptist Church will also host a praise dance team as part of its Black History Month education.
LAKELAND, Fla. — You may have seen it — the perfectly timed stomps, the chants and hand claps.
What You Need To Know
A Lakeland-based youth step team is helping preserve the cultural tradition of stepping, an art form rooted in African history
Beyond competition, the team provides mentorship, sisterhood and a safe space for self-expression for middle and high school girls
The group is actively sharing the tradition on a national stage, hosting a step show this weekend with teams from across the country
But where did it all begin?
For centuries, stepping, a powerful ritual dance, has inspired generations, including the Lakeland-based step team Taken by Surprise.
The group of girls, ranging in age, practices stepping inside Sleepy Hill Middle School’s gym about four days a week. While winning competitions is the goal, the steppers say they gain so much more.
For 12th grader Aleyah Davis, it’s sisterhood.
“It got me out of my shell because I am shy,” Davis said.
Meanwhile, 11th grader Keyanah Colston says it’s a safe place to express herself.
“If anything is weighing on my mind, I feel like when we come here, it’s just an open space to do you,” Colston said.
Team sponsor Corey Tumer started Taken by Surprise 13 years ago to help build character in young people. As a member of Kappa Alpha Psi, he also wanted to expose them to Greek life — specifically historically Black fraternities and sororities known as the Divine Nine.
“And that gives them more exposure than just being home and the possibility to network with other students across the country and get that experience of what life would be like as a college student,” Tumer said.
Though stepping is widely used throughout Divine Nine culture, the art form didn’t originate there. Longtime dance instructor Andrida Hosey says stepping is rooted in African tradition.
“So a lot of things, like celebratory things like naming ceremonies, and wedding celebrations, and going out for war, we used movement and rhythm, especially the drums,” Hosey said. “But as we came over to America, we couldn’t use the drums as slaves. They started using their body as instruments, and the clapping and the rhythm, and their voices as instruments.”
She says those movements became a way to express feelings during a time when doing so was forbidden.
Today, stepping gives young people that same freedom of expression, something the girls of Taken by Surprise say they don’t take for granted.
Taken by Surprise will host a national step show this Saturday at Kathleen High School. Twenty teams from around the country will compete. Doors open at 2 p.m.
The Throwdown Events and Entertainment is presenting For the Culture Food Truck Rodeo on February 21, 2026, from 12 to 7 p.m., at Levine Avenue of the Arts in Uptown Charlotte, North Carolina. (Near 550 S Tryon Street.)
It’s free to attend.
This celebration of Black History Month features Black-owned food trucks, vendors and more.
This is a family-friendly event that will also include face painting, games and a bounce house.
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We make every effort to make sure that everything on Charlotte on the Cheap is 100% accurate.
However, sometimes things change without notice, and we are not always notified. It’s also possible that we can make a mistake.
Please verify all deals and events with the venue or organizer before you go.
Hot on the heels of AGDQ in January, Games Done Quick is hosting its second speedrunning event of the year, Back to Black 2026, starting tomorrow, February 5. The four-day event is organized by Black in a Flash and is raising money for Race Forward, a nonprofit that works across communities to address systemic racism.
Back to Black is timed to the start of Black History Month and highlights the deep bench of talent in the Black speedrunning community. A few runs, like ones for Hades II, Donkey Kong Country and Silent Hill 4, were teased when Back to Black 2026 was announced last year. The full schedule has plenty of other runs worth checking out, though, like a co-op run through Plants vs Zombies: Replanted on February 5 or an Any% run of The Barbie Diaries: High School Mystery on February 6.
Back to Black 2026 will be live on Games Done Quick’s Twitch and YouTube channels from Thursday, February 5 through Sunday February 8.
A quarter of a billion dollars in grants has been awarded to two different nonprofits by the D.C. Office of Planning for the care and preservation of historically Black cemeteries in the District of Columbia.
Throughout February, WTOP is celebrating Black History Month. Join us on-air and online as we bring you the stories, people and places that make up our diverse community.
A quarter-million dollars in grants has been awarded to two different nonprofits by the D.C. Office of Planning for the care and preservation of historically Black cemeteries in the District.
Anita Cozart, director of D.C. Office of Planning, told WTOP the groups intend to spend the money differently.
Woodlawn Cemetery will focus on hazardous trees that impede grave sites, add fencing and improve the site’s signage.
“So that it’s very clear that this is a place that you can go and learn about the history of Washington, D.C.,” Cozart said.
The Black Georgetown Foundation will make improvements to its on-site infrastructure and create an online portal that allows people to get more information about the cemeteries, as well as host events on Emancipation Day and Juneteenth.
“This is part of what Mayor Bowser has been really focused on during her term, to make sure that the history and heritage and culture of Black Washingtonians is something that is front and center and couldn’t be more timely than for the kickoff of Black History Month,” Cozart said.
While Woodlawn Cemetery dates back to the late 19th century, both Georgetown cemeteries were established in 1808.
“Our nation had laws of segregation … of course, it extended to cemeteries,” Cozart said. “The ones that were for Black Washingtonians were based on churches that Black Washingtonians, were congregations they were welcomed into.”
Over time, those churches moved to other locations.
“Making sure that there’s maintaining institutions that help to preserve that heritage and culture, that has been a challenge. And so we’re happy to have these grants to do that,” Cozart said.
The two grants are the first to be issued under the Historic Burial Grounds Preservation Program, which was established by the D.C. Council through the Historic African American Burial Grounds Preservation Fund Amendment Act of 2025.
“This grant program is named for Paul Sluby, he was a legal researcher, a historian who really focused on historic burial grounds in the city,” Cozart said. “We’re glad that the activities that the grantees are going to do are going to be something that kids and students can get access to.”
Cozart added that kids who visit may later decide that they want careers in history, heritage preservation and cultural preservation in their own hometown.
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Charlotte Mecklenburg Library has many events planned to celebrate and explore Black History Month in February, 2026.
The events are geared toward different age groups and include film, art exploration, genealogy, and more. Follow the links to make sure that there haven’t been any changes in plans. You can see all of Charlotte Mecklenburg Library’s Black History Month offerings here.
Celebrate Black history all day, every day! Stop by the teen loft, grab a piece of paper, a pencil, and explore the loft to find all of 40 extraordinary Black artists, innovators, and visionaries in our Black History Month Scavenger Hunt!
Once you’re done, bring your answers to the desk to see what you got right! Get them all correct? You get a prize!
Echoes of Forks of Cypress explores the lives of the enslaved and enslavers at the Forks of Cypress plantation in Florence, AL. The documentary highlights their struggles, resilience, and the plantation’s historical significance. It then shifts to the present, where descendants from both sides come together to confront and heal from their shared past. The enslaved and free people of Forks of Cypress had North Carolina roots. Sarah Moore Jackson, owner of the Forks of Cypress, was a descendant of the Moore family of Orton Plantation. She was a childhood ward of the Cameron family of Stagville.
A Q&A with director and producer, Frederick Murphy, and a discussion facilitated by co-leaders of Coming to the Table Metro Charlotte will follow the screening! Light refreshments will be provided.
Uncover the stories of your ancestors and connect with your heritage in this introductory genealogy class. Designed for beginners, this session focuses on the foundational skills needed to trace your family history, with a special emphasis on African American resources and search strategies.
The Charlotte Post presents a Black History Month celebration of Charlotteans who have impacted the community through their groundbreaking achievements, innovation and perseverance. Join us for meaningful sit‑down conversations that uplift, educate, and inspire every Tuesday during the month of February. In honor of Black History Month, our community is coming together to share stories, celebrate achievements, and explore the rich legacy that continues to shape our future. These gatherings offer a welcoming space to connect, learn, and grow alongside neighbors and friends.
February 3: Black Baseball in Charlotte: Negro Leagues to Triple County
February 10: Law Enforcement Pioneer: Rodney Monroe
February 17: Health Care Innovator: Yele Aluko M.D.
Did you know that the Allegra Westbrooks Regional Library is named after the first African American public library supervisor in North Carolina?
In this program, we will be making DIY mini library nooks made out of cardboard as we learn more about Allegra Westbrooks. This program is geared for school age children and preteens. All materials will be provided.
Unlock the secrets of African American genealogy with this presentation, navigating the challenges of tracing enslaved or free ancestors. Explore crucial records like slave schedules, free Negro Registries, and cohabitation records. Discover effective strategies using census clues to trace lineage before 1865, empowering you in ancestral exploration.
Meet Author: ReShonda Tate Friday, February 6, 2026 4 p.m. Hickory Grove Library 5935 Hickory Grove Road, Charlotte, NC Adults
Hickory Grove Public Library welcomes national bestselling author ReShonda Tate in conversation with author Vanessa Miller.
As the author of more than fifty bestselling books, ReShonda Tate brings both passion and experience to life through her storytelling.
ReShonda will sign books following the discussion, and books will be available for purchase.
Please register online to reserve your spot.
Meet Author: Daniel Black Saturday, February 7, 2026 2 to 4 p.m. Hickory Grove Library 5935 Hickory Grove Road, Charlotte, NC Adults
Hickory Grove Public Library welcomes author Dr. Daniel Black.
Dr. Black brings more than three decades of teaching experience in African American Studies at Clark Atlanta University, along with a celebrated career as an author. His published works include They Tell Me of A Home, The Sacred Place, Perfect Peace, Twelve Gates to the City, The Coming, Listen to the Lambs, Don’t Cry for Me, Black on Black, and Isaac’s Song. His novels and essays have earned national recognition, including the 2024 Georgia Author of the Year Award for Black on Black.
Daniel will be signing books following the discussion, and books will also be available for purchase. Please be sure to register online to secure your spot.
Dig In! Little Explorers is designed especially for curious minds ages 0-5 and is a playful and engaging early learning program that introduces young children to the wonders of history through storytelling, music, hands-on activities, and imaginative play.
February’s activities will explore hands-on activity stations inspired by African American culture, community, and history—perfect for toddlers and preschoolers. Offered by Levine Museum of the New South.
Black History Month Paint & Sip Tuesday, February 17, 2026 6 to 7:30 p.m. West Boulevard Library 2157 West Boulevard, Charlotte, NC Adults
Release your inner Basquiat and join us for an afternoon of Paint & Sip! In this self-guided painting session, participants will create artwork inspired by Black Culture. Enjoy a selection of refreshing punch as you immerse yourself in a calm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for unwinding and expressing your creativity.
No artistic experience is needed—just bring an open mind and a desire to have fun! All supplies will be provided.
Test your knowledge and learn something new during this fun, fast-paced Black History Month Jeopardy game! Teens will compete in teams to answer questions about influential figures, historical moments, music, sports, pop culture, and more. No pressure—just friendly competition and cool facts. All knowledge levels welcome! Light snacks will be provided.
Listen & Create: Black History Month Monday, February 23, 2026 6 to 7 p.m. Allegra Westbrooks Regional Library 2412 Beatties Ford Road, Charlotte, NC Ages 5-12
Join us for a fun and thoughtful Black History Month program! Enjoy listening to the audiobook: Swinging Into History Toni Stone: Big-League Baseball’s First Woman Player while you create your very own foam finger to cheer Toni and her team on!
In honor of Black History Month, Steele Creek Library presents a special screening and discussion of the documentary: I Am Not Your Negro.
In 1979, James Baldwin wrote a letter to his literary agent describing his next project, “Remember This House.” The book was to be a personal account of the lives and assassinations of three of his close friends: Medgar Evers, Malcolm X, and Martin Luther King Jr. At the time of Baldwin’s death in 1987, he left behind only 30 completed pages of this manuscript.
Filmmaker Raoul Peck envisions the book James Baldwin never finished in his documentary I Am Not Your Negro.
Sugar Creek Library presents a joyful, uplifting blend of reading, healthy food experiences, movement, professional family photos, and crafting designed for grandparents, parents, teens, and kids to enjoy together. Each activity honors Black history while strengthening bonds across generations through shared wellness and joyful connection. Enjoy a day of wellness and unity in motion.
Double-Check Before You Head Out!
We make every effort to make sure that everything on Charlotte on the Cheap is 100% accurate.
However, sometimes things change without notice, and we are not always notified. It’s also possible that we can make a mistake.
Please verify all deals and events with the venue or organizer before you go.
OMAHA HAS A NEW ADDITION TO THE 100 CLUB. SARAH ROUNTREE CELEBRATED A CENTURY OF CIVIL RIGHTS ACTIVISM TODAY. NEWSWATCH SEVEN’S IZZY JUUL WAS AT SARAH’S BIRTHDAY PARTY AND SHARES HER STORY. TRAILBLAZER I CAN. HISTORY MAKER ALL WORDS TO DESCRIBE THE BIRTHDAY GIRL SARAH ROUNTREE. SHE’S THE LAST SURVIVING MEMBER OF THE COMMITTEE FOR CIVIL LIBERTIES IN OMAHA’S NEWEST 100 YEAR OLD. HELLO EVERYONE! I AM SO HAPPY AND GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU FOR COMING FOR MY BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION. SHE IS 100 YEARS YOUNG. AMEN. YES, SHE’S STILL GOT THE FIGHT IN HER. THE FIRST THING SHE SAID TO ME WAS WE’RE GOING TO START UP THE FOR SALE AGAIN. ROUNTREE WAS AT THE FOREFRONT OF THE 1960S CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT HERE IN OMAHA. THEY DIDN’T TALK ABOUT BLACK HISTORY BACK THEN. THEY DIDN’T DO ANY OF THAT. AND IT BECAUSE OF SEVERAL ROUNTREE THAT WE ARE NOW ABLE TO TALK ABOUT BLACK HISTORY. SHE WAS THE RIGHT HAND AT FORT SILL DOING EVERYTHING FROM FIGHTING SEGREGATION TO TEACHING THEIR KIDS. I’M SURE THAT THE DEPARTED CIVIL RIGHTS MEMBERS FOR HCL MEMBERS ARE LOOKING. THEIR SPIRIT IS HERE TODAY, AND THEY’RE SMILING AND THEY’RE HAPPY. SHE ALWAYS WAS READY TO FIGHT THE GOOD FIGHT AND GET INTO GOOD TROUBLE. ROUNTREE AND HER WORK HAVE BEEN ETCHED INTO OMAHA’S HISTORY. A STREET IN HER NAME AND A PROCLAMATION FROM MAYOR JOHN EWING JR HIMSELF. MANY YEARS OF FAITHFUL SERVICE AND MEANINGFUL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE OMAHA COMMUNITY, LEAVING AN INDELIBLE MARK OF KINDNESS ON ALL THOSE WHO HAVE HAD THE PRIVILEGE OF KNOWING HER. IN OMAHA, IZZY FONFARA JUUL KETV NEWSWATCH SEVEN. HAPPY BIRTHDAY SARAH! CAN YOU IMAGINE EVERYTHIN
Civil rights activist celebrates 100th birthday
Sarah Rountree is the last surviving member of the Committee for Civil Liberties.
Civil rights advocate Sarah Rountree celebrated 100 years of activism Monday.Her friends describe her as a “trailblazer, icon history maker.”Rountree is the last surviving member of the Committee for Civil Liberties, a civil rights organization founded in the 1960s.”Hello everyone, I am so happy,” Rountree said at the start of her party. “God bless all of you for coming to my birthday celebration.””She is 100 years young, she’s still got the fight,” the Rev. Darryl Eure, son of another 4CL member, said. “You know, the first thing she said to me was, ‘We’re going to start up the 4CL again.”Rountree was at the forefront of the 1960s civil rights movement in Omaha.”They didn’t talk about Black history back then,” Eure said. “They didn’t do any of that, and it’s because of Sarah Rountree that we are now able to talk about Black history.”She was the right hand at 4CL, doing everything from fighting segregation to teaching kids.”I’m sure that the departed civil rights members, 4CL members, are looking. Their spirits are here today, and they’re smiling, and they’re happy,” Rountree said. “She always was ready to fight the good fight and get into good trouble,” Eure said.Rountree and her work have been etched into Omaha’s history. She has a street in her name and received a proclamation from city Mayor John Ewing Jr. at her party on Sunday.”Mrs. Rountree has dedicated many years of faithful service and meaningful contributions to the Omaha community, leaving an indelible mark of kindness on all those who have had the privilege of knowing her,” the proclamation reads.Family and friends said she is a firecracker who loves to dance to her favorite song, “She’s a Bad Mama Jama” by Carl Carlton.Rountree continued her activism well into her 90s, using her knowledge and reputation to raise awareness of the water crisis in Flint, Michigan. She will be the keynote speaker during Catholic Charities’ celebration of African American history at the end of February.
OMAHA, Neb. —
Civil rights advocate Sarah Rountree celebrated 100 years of activism Monday.
Her friends describe her as a “trailblazer, icon [and] history maker.”
Rountree is the last surviving member of the Committee for Civil Liberties, a civil rights organization founded in the 1960s.
“Hello everyone, I am so happy,” Rountree said at the start of her party. “God bless all of you for coming to my birthday celebration.”
“She is 100 years young, she’s still got the fight,” the Rev. Darryl Eure, son of another 4CL member, said. “You know, the first thing she said to me was, ‘We’re going to start up the 4CL again.”
Rountree was at the forefront of the 1960s civil rights movement in Omaha.
“They didn’t talk about Black history back then,” Eure said. “They didn’t do any of that, and it’s because of Sarah Rountree that we are now able to talk about Black history.”
She was the right hand at 4CL, doing everything from fighting segregation to teaching kids.
“I’m sure that the departed civil rights members, 4CL members, are looking. Their spirits are here today, and they’re smiling, and they’re happy,” Rountree said.
“She always was ready to fight the good fight and get into good trouble,” Eure said.
Rountree and her work have been etched into Omaha’s history. She has a street in her name and received a proclamation from city Mayor John Ewing Jr. at her party on Sunday.
“Mrs. Rountree has dedicated many years of faithful service and meaningful contributions to the Omaha community, leaving an indelible mark of kindness on all those who have had the privilege of knowing her,” the proclamation reads.
Family and friends said she is a firecracker who loves to dance to her favorite song, “She’s a Bad Mama Jama” by Carl Carlton.
Rountree continued her activism well into her 90s, using her knowledge and reputation to raise awareness of the water crisis in Flint, Michigan. She will be the keynote speaker during Catholic Charities’ celebration of African American history at the end of February.
Black History Month, which takes place in February every year, is celebrated throughout the Charlotte area with festivals, storytelling, performances, lectures, film, and much more.
We’re putting together a list of some of the special events taking place in Charlotte for Black History Month in 2026, as well as a couple of places that have a focus on African American history and culture all year.
We’ve just started compiling these events. Last year there were 70+ events on the list. So please keep checking back.
Make sure to follow each link for more information.
Also, please check out this North Carolina Black History Reading List. It’s a collection of books for kids and adults that address Black history and culture, and also have a connection to North Carolina — either in subject matter, or through the author or illustrator.
You might also be interested in:
Do you know of other events or places that should be on the list? Just send us an email to info@charlotteonthecheap.com and we’ll get it onto the list, time permitting.
African American History and Culture in Charlotte
Scroll down for a big list of Black History Month events in February, but first, here’s a look at a few places and resources to immerse yourself in African American history and culture all year in Charlotte.
The Gantt Center presents dynamic, exciting art in all genres that celebrate the African-American story. The museum also hosts frequent events, including family arts activities, after-hours events, films, lectures, and special tours.
Regular adult admission is $10, with discounts for students, senior, and military members. The Gantt Center is part of Bank of America’s Museums on Us program, which offers free admission to Bank of America customers the first weekend of the month. In addition, admission is free on Wednesday nights for everyone, as part of the Wednesday Night Live program.
Self-Guided Walking Tour of Historic West End Trade Street and Beatties Ford Road Any time History South has put together a self-guided walking out of the Historic West End and JCSU Campus.
Queen City Nerve has created a collection of articles about local Black History, covering slavery, revolution, the Civil Rights Movement, redlining, segregation, desegregation and more.
Black History Month Events in Charlotte
Keep checking back. We’ll be adding to this list all the time.
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Double-Check Before You Head Out!
We make every effort to make sure that everything on Charlotte on the Cheap is 100% accurate.
However, sometimes things change without notice, and we are not always notified. It’s also possible that we can make a mistake.
Please verify all deals and events with the venue or organizer before you go.
The significance of Black history in Chicago has helped shape the city into a cultural and economic powerhouse. And there’s no better time to discover the fascinating details of this legacy than during the Black History Month celebration throughout the city. The Black History Month tradition was actually established in Chicago in 1926 by Dr. Carter G. Woodson, the “Father of Black History.”
Experience the city’s rich cultural offerings while honoring Black History Month in Chicago with exhibits, performances, concerts, plays, tours, and events.
Black History Month in Chicago
Museum and art exhibits
Black Creativity at Griffin Museum of Science and Industry Chicago
Visit Chicago’s acclaimed line-up of museums and discover thrilling displays that showcase the work of Black artists, innovators, and leaders.
Black Creativity Juried Art Exhibit Now through April 19, 2026 This annual exhibit is the country’s longest-running display of African American art. The Griffin Museum of Science & Industry exhibit includes paintings, sculptures, mixed media, ceramics, photography, drawings, and fine art prints by African American artists, including teen and youth artists.
Paris in Black Now open Transport yourself to Paris from the 1890s through the 1950s, when Black writers, artists, performers and intellectuals created a Black Renaissance in the City of Lights. The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center guides visitors through over 100 objects that document the creative lives of icons like Josephine Baker, Langston Hughes and James Baldwin as they defied American racism and established a glorious Black artistic mecca.
Crafting Character: The Costumes of Paul Tazewell Now through Sept. 7, 2026 View the dazzling work of legendary fashion and costume designer Paul Tazewell, the first Black man to win an Oscar in best costume design. Tazewell created dresses for “Wicked” the movie, the Broadway production of “Hamilton,” and Steven Spielberg’s “West Side Story.” The Griffin Museum of Science & Industry presents the award-winning designer’s costumes as well as sketches, videos and audio narration.
Injustice: The Trial for the Murder of Emmett Till Now open The Chicago History Museum examines the 1955 murder of Emmett Till, the Black teen from Chicago whose brutal lynching and subsequent criminal trial helped spark the Civil Rights Movement. The exhibit highlights photos of Till enjoying his life in Chicago and courtroom sketches of the trial.
Connecting Threads — Africa Fashion in Chicago Now through March 1, 2026 Experience the vibrant tradition of African-inspired fashion through the lens of Chicago-based designers. The Field Museum presents a stunning exhibit of garments, textiles and jewelry that showcase fashion as storytelling and cultural expression.
Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Todd Rosenberg Photography
Honor Black History Month with Black music traditions including jazz, Afrobeats, and blues.
A Musical Tribute to “Paris in Black” Feb. 1, 2026 Kick off Black History Month with this musical ode to the newest exhibit at the DuSable Black History Museum, featuring Black Voices in Cabaret and other performers from the Chicago Paris Cabaret Connexion.
Jose’ James with Lizz Wright: Marvin Gaye’s I Want You Feb. 6, 2026 Celebrate the 50th anniversary of Marvin Gaye’s pivotal album, “I Want You,” with a soaring tribute by two masterful vocalists. Jose James and Lizz Wright reignite the innovative album that blended jazz, R&B, soul, funk and disco. The Symphony Center concert is followed by a post-concert reception by the CSO African American Network.
Valencia Lacy Feb. 11, 2026 Spirited vocalist Valencia Lacy takes listeners on a powerful musical journey that traces the evolution of Black music in America. “Journey to Here” features spirituals, gospel tunes, and freedom songs for the Old Town School of Music’s Black History Month celebration.
Black History Concert Series: Voices of A’se (Day One) Feb. 24, 2026 This free concert series by Uniting Voices celebrates the impact of Africana music on Chicago and the world with a performance by school program singers from all over the city as the culmination of their Black History 360 curriculum. The concert takes place at the landmark Auditorium Theatre.
Tours and events
Photo by Eric Allix Rogers
Dive deeper into Black culture and history with tours of historic landmarks and neighborhoods, panel discussions, and speaker events.
Black History Celebration: Rooted in Resilience Feb. 4, 2026 This free community event explores the connection between food, art, and culture with a film screening, panel discussion, a cookbook signing by James Beard Award-winning chef Bryant Terry and light bites for sampling at the Logan Center for the Arts.
Woodson Community Heritage Quilt Project Feb. 7, 2026 The children’s department at Woodson Library hosts an interactive program that examines the textile traditions and symbolism of West Africa. Visitors will create their own fabric squares that they can take home or donate to be sewn into the Woodson Community Heritage Quilt at the end of the month.
Chicago Black Restaurant Week Feb. 8 – 22, 2026 Sample dishes that reflect Black heritage and innovation during this annual event, which features special deals at restaurants across Chicago.
Commemorative Day: Black History Month Feb. 28, 2026 Discover the ways that art has created social change in Chicago’s African American community during this interactive event that includes art activities, music and speakers at the Chicago History Museum.
Playlab Playdate: Black History Month Story Time Feb. 18, 2026 The Field Museum gathers kids from ages 2 to 6 years old for a free story time session that honors Black history, culture, and communities with stories and songs.
Black History Month Tours with Chicago Historian Dilla Through February Chicago’s own Emmy Award-winning historian guides visitors through neighborhoods that showcase and commemorate the city’s Black history. Sign up for bus tours of Englewood, Pullman/Roseland, Bronzeville, and North Lawndale during Black History Month with Chicago Mahogany Tours.
Theatre
The Second City
Enjoy Chicago’s extensive Black theatrical scene with productions that reflect the diversity of the Black experience.
Trial in the Delta: The Murder of Emmett Till Feb. 1 – March 1, 2026 The horrific story of the lynching of a Chicago teen in Mississippi is adapted from the actual lost transcripts from the trial of the men who killed Emmett Till by Collaboraction Theater. The riveting production runs at The Kimball Arts Center through February.
Black and Highly Flavored Feb. 5 – March 20, 2026 The Black Excellence Comedy Revue returns to The Second City with a new set of sketches, songs, and improv reflecting Black joy.
Quiet Parts Out Loud: The Life of A. G. Gaston Feb. 5 – 8, 2026 This musical that showcases the fascinating life of Black billionaire A.G. Gaston, who opened businesses to serve Black people in the Jim Crow South and used his wealth to help fund the Civil Rights Movement. This production at the Harold Washington Cultural Center reveals how strategy and economics helped shape Black advancement during the 20th century.
Black Cypress Bayou Feb. 13 to March 15, 2026 A group of women in the East Texas bayou tackles a long-buried family secret that brings up humorous chaos and the reckoning of history. Reparations and how ancestral spirits remain active are showcased in this lively comedy at Definition Theatre.
Squat Now through March 1, 2026 A couple discovers that their new neighbor, an attractive fitness social media influencer, might be hiding her real identity. As they investigate her life, their own life falls under more scrutiny. Written by Tina Fakhrid-Deen, this production digs into the different effects of truth, clarity, and transformation.
Historic landmarks and monuments
Victory Monument in Bronzeville
All around Chicago, you’ll find physical reminders of the city’s Black history and culture.
In the South Loop, Quinn Chapel AME stands in stately 19th-century glory as the first African American church in Chicago. It also served as a stop on the Underground Railroad and hosted activists like Frederick Douglass, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Mayor Harold Washington.
Nearby, Willie Dixon’s Blues Heaven Foundation housed in the Chess Records building, showcases the music and history of legendary Chicago blues musicians, including Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf, Etta James and Bo Diddley.
On the South Side, the Gwendolyn Brooks House was home one of the most influential American poets of the 20th century. Brooks was the first African American to win a Pulitzer Prize. Many of her poems were inspired by the scenes she observed from her Park Manor home.
Nobody’s Darling owners Renauda Riddle and Angela Barnes, photo by Susanne Fairfax
One of the best ways to celebrate Black History Month is by supporting local Black-owned businesses. Chicago is home to a diverse community of Black-owned restaurants, theatres, shops, and beyond.
Black History Month has been recognized every year since 1976. While it’s important to take this opportunity to look back and reflect as well as celebrate incredible milestones and victories, we don’t have to wait until February! Here are some Black History Month facts to share with kids all year round.
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Black History Month Facts for Kids
1. Carter G. Woodson is the “Father of Black History.”
The historian was the second Black student to graduate from Harvard University with a doctorate degree. His incredible research led to the establishment of Black History Month in 1926. It later became a nationally recognized annual event in 1976.
2. Black History Month is in February in recognition of the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass.
Lincoln’s birthday is on February 12, while Douglass’ exact birthday is unknown, but he celebrated on February 14. During the Civil War, Lincoln worked tirelessly to expand the rights of Black Americans. Douglass, a formerly enslaved man, became a leader who fought to end slavery during the abolitionist movement.
3. William Tucker was the first Black person born in the 13 colonies.
William Tucker was born in 1624 to indentured servants in Jamestown, Virginia. They were among the first group of Africans brought to the colonies by Great Britain.
4. The first novel published by a Black author was published in 1853.
7. Lucy Terry wrote the first known poem by a Black American.
From a young age, Lucy Terry lived in enslavement in Rhode Island. She was freed at age 26 when she married a free Black man. She penned “Bars Fight” in 1746.
8. Phillis Wheatley published the first book of poetry by a Black author in 1773.
A family in Boston purchased Wheatley, who was born in Gambia, when she was just 7 years old. She was emancipated shortly after releasing Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral.
9. Nat King Cole was the first Black American to host a television show.
10. Hattie McDaniel was the first Black person to win an Oscar.
In 1940, Hattie McDaniel took home the Academy Award for her supporting role in Gone With the Wind. It took 24 more years for Sidney Poitier to become the first Black man to win the Best Actor award (for Lilies of the Field), and 62 years for Halle Berry to win the Best Actress prize (for Monster’s Ball).
11. In the early 1770s, Quakers created the first public school for Black children.
14. Kamala Harris was the first Black vice president of the United States.
When she took office in 2021, Harris became the first woman and first person of African or Asian descent to step into the role of vice president. Her father immigrated from Jamaica and her mother immigrated from India.
15. “Rapper’s Delight” by Sugar Hill Gang was the first commercially successful rap record.
The groundbreaking song was produced by “Hip Hop’s First Godmother,” Sylvia Robinson. Along with her husband, Robinson co-owned Sugar Hill Records. It was the first hip-hop music label.
16. Stevie Wonder was the first Black artist to win a Grammy Award for Album of the Year.
19. Madam C.J. Walker was the first Black female self-made millionaire.
Walker created a line of hair-care products for Black women. The Netflix series Self Made tells her amazing story.
20. Robert Johnson was the first Black billionaire.
He founded Black Entertainment Television (BET) and amassed a fortune when he sold it in 2001.
21. Althea Gibson was the first Black tennis player to win a Grand Slam.
Gibson won her first in 1956 and went on to win another 11 Grand Slam tournaments throughout her career.
22. George Washington Carver’s work led to more than 500 products created from peanuts and sweet potatoes.
The agricultural scientist promoted crops alternative to cotton and his research greatly contributed to the economic growth of the rural South. He also invented techniques to avoid soil depletion.
23. Fritz Pollard and Bobby Marshall were the first Black athletes to play in the NFL.
The football players joined in 1920. Later, Pollard would go on to become the NFL’s first Black coach.
24. Sheryl Swoopes was the first player to sign with the WNBA.
The star athlete joined in 1996, and the league debuted the following year.
25. Gabby Douglas made history at the 2012 London Olympics.
The gymnast became the first Black woman to win the Individual All-Around title.
26. Septima Poinsette Clark helped found nearly 1,000 citizenship schools.
27. The first Black-owned newspaper was published in 1827.
Freedom’s Journal, published in New York City, was the first Black-owned-and-operated newspaper in the United States. It provided a platform to counter racist narratives and advocate for abolition and civil rights.
28. Mae Jemison was the first Black woman to travel to space.
In 1992, Dr. Mae Jemison made history aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour. She is also a physician, engineer, and advocate for STEM education.
29. Bass Reeves, the first Black deputy U.S. marshal, may have been the inspiration for the Lone Ranger.
While it cannot be proven conclusively, many believe Reeves to be the inspiration for the famous character. Born into slavery, he became a legendary lawman in the Old West, capturing more than 3,000 fugitives during his career.
30. The first Black-owned hospital opened in 1891.
Provident Hospital in Chicago was founded by Dr. Daniel Hale Williams, who also performed one of the first successful open-heart surgeries.
31. Oscar Micheaux was the first Black filmmaker to produce a feature-length film.
Micheaux released The Homesteader in 1919, paving the way for Black voices in cinema.
In 1951, cells taken from Henrietta Lacks without her knowledge became the first immortal human cells. Known as HeLa cells, they have been instrumental in medical research, including the development of vaccines and cancer treatments.
33. Marian Anderson was the first Black singer to perform a leading role at the Metropolitan Opera.
In 1955, Anderson broke barriers in classical music by appearing on the Met stage, becoming a symbol of progress during the Civil Rights Movement.
34. Early Black inventors held more than 50,000 patents in the United States.
In the period from 1870 to 1940, “Black people accounted for more inventions during this period than immigrants from every country except England and Germany.” Innovations like the traffic light (Garrett Morgan), modern refrigeration (Frederick McKinley Jones), and automatic elevator doors (Alexander Miles) were created by Black inventors.
35. Shirley Chisholm was the first Black woman to run for president.
In 1972, Chisholm campaigned for the Democratic nomination, making history as a trailblazer for women and people of color in politics.
36. The Black Lives Matter movement was founded by three women.
Patrisse Cullors, Alicia Garza, and Opal Tometi started the global movement in 2013 to combat systemic racism and violence against Black communities.
37. Frederick Douglass was the most photographed American of the 19th century.
38. African American surveyor Benjamin Banneker helped design Washington, D.C.
A self-taught mathematician and astronomer, Banneker assisted in surveying the capital and published six almanacs filled with his scientific work.
39. Bessie Coleman was the first Black woman to earn a pilot’s license.
Rejected by U.S. flight schools, she trained in France in 1921 and became a pioneering stunt pilot who inspired generations of aviators.
40. The Harlem Renaissance was a cultural explosion of Black art, music, and literature.
Centered in New York City mostly during the 1920s and 1930s, legends like Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, and Duke Ellington were defining figures of the Harlem Renaissance.
41. The Tuskegee Airmen were the first Black military pilots in the U.S. Armed Forces.
Formed in 1941, they flew more than 15,000 missions in World War II and helped desegregate the military.
42. Katherine Johnson’s math made space travel possible.
Her calculations for NASA ensured the success of John Glenn’s 1962 orbit, earning her recognition decades later in the book and movie Hidden Figures.
43. The Montgomery Bus Boycott lasted over a year.
Sparked by Rosa Parks’ arrest, the 381-day boycott ended in 1956 when the Supreme Court ruled bus segregation unconstitutional.
44. Martin Luther King Jr. was the youngest person to win the Nobel Peace Prize at the time.
At age 35, he received the award in 1964 for his leadership in nonviolent activism.
45. The “I Have a Dream” speech was partly improvised.
During the 1963 March on Washington, Mahalia Jackson shouted, “Tell them about the dream!” prompting Martin Luther King Jr. to deliver the historic finale.
46. Toni Morrison was the first Black woman to win the Nobel Prize in Literature.
47. Oprah Winfrey was the first Black woman billionaire.
Rising from poverty, she built a media empire through The Oprah Winfrey Show and continues to champion education and empowerment.
48. Colin Powell was the first Black U.S. Secretary of State.
Appointed in 2001, the four-star general also served as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, breaking multiple racial barriers in leadership.
49. Amanda Gorman became the youngest inaugural poet in U.S. history.
At just 22, she captivated the world with her poem “The Hill We Climb” at President Joe Biden’s 2021 inauguration.
50. Juneteenth became a federal holiday in 2021.
Observed on June 19, Juneteenth marks the day in 1865 when enslaved people in Texas finally learned of their freedom, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation.
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Share these Black History Month facts with your students! Just fill out the form on this page to download your free Google Slides.
One gift of February is that it allows teachers and students to learn something new about Black Americans. February begins the first 28 days of a 365-day celebration of African American history. I love Black History Month because it is an opportunity to celebrate the incredible contributions of Black Americans to history, science, art, culture, and civil rights through Black History Month activities. Black Americans are making history every day and it is important to provide opportunities and Black History Month activities for all to learn more about these accomplishments.
As teachers, it’s important to use diverse and engaging resources to help students understand the complexities of Black history in a respectful and meaningful way. I have compiled ideas and Black History Month activities for teaching about Black History Month so that everyone can learn together in our inclusive, culturally rich classrooms.
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When teaching Black History Month activities, it’s crucial to approach the topic with respect, openness, and inclusivity. Here are a few key tips, plus check out more Black History Month tips for schools here.
Foster Open Dialogue
Encourage students to ask questions and express their feelings about what they are learning.
Avoid Simplification
While stories of struggle are important, also highlight stories of achievement, creativity, and the contributions of Black individuals in various fields.
Incorporate Multiple Perspectives
Acknowledge the diversity within the Black community, focusing on the different experiences of Black people throughout history.
Promote Action and Empathy
Encourage students to take action on issues of equality, justice, and human rights, both in and out of the classroom.
When reading, create space for discussion on themes like perseverance, equality, resilience, and the importance of representation. Encourage students to connect the stories with their own lives.
Resources for the activities below:
1. Hold read-aloud sessions
Adrienne Hathaway for We Are Teachers
Choose a selection of age-appropriate poetry and stories featuring important figures and events from Black history. Examples include The Story of Ruby Bridges by Robert Coles (grades K-2) and Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly (grades 3-5).
2. Organize literature circles
For older students (grades 6-12), organize literature circles where small groups of students read different books about significant Black historical figures (e.g., Malcolm X: A Life of Reinvention by Manning Marable for high school) and discuss key themes.
3. Write short stories and biographies
Ask students to create a “Black History Month Book” by researching a famous Black figure and writing a fictionalized short story or biography based on real events.
4. Conduct a famous African American military member research assignment
Assign students Black History Month activities to research notable African American military figures (e.g., Colonel Charles Young, the Tuskegee Airmen) and create presentations or posters highlighting their achievements. Highlight the bravery and perseverance of African American military figures who served in segregated units or fought against racial injustice in the armed forces. Teach students about the pivotal role these figures played in changing military policy and advancing civil rights.
5. Conduct a famous African American Olympian research assignment
Have students research famous African American Olympians (e.g., Jackie Robinson, Wilma Rudolph, Simone Biles) and explore their achievements both in and out of the sports arena. Use these athletes as examples of excellence, perseverance, and breaking barriers. Discuss how African American athletes have used their platform to advocate for social justice and equality.
6. Read up on famous African American educators
Have students research famous African American educators (e.g., Mary McLeod Bethune, Booker T. Washington) and their contributions to education. Discuss how these educators advocated for systemic changes in education, and have students debate how education should change today.
Analyze Quotes and Speeches
Encourage students to analyze quotes for the historical context behind them. Explain why these figures spoke these words and how they reflect struggles or triumphs in Black history.
Resources for the activities below:
7. Design a quote wall
We Are Teachers
Have students choose a meaningful Black History Month quote each week to display on a bulletin board. They can write a short reflection on what the quote means to them and how it connects to today’s world.
8. Conduct a literary analysis
Have students read a book by an African American author (e.g., The Color Purple, Beloved, The Hate U Give) and watch the film adaptation. Ask them to compare and contrast the two versions, analyzing themes, characters, and historical context. Use the opportunity to explore themes of adaptation, representation, and the different ways stories can be told through various mediums. Encourage critical thinking about how films may either amplify or dilute the messages in the original books.
9. Hold a daily quote challenge
Share a quote each day and have students respond in a journal or on a class blog, reflecting on its impact on their thinking.
10. Create quote displays
Decorate the classroom with student-created artwork and/or quotes from Black leaders, poets, and activists.
11. Interview family members
Have students interview older family members about their personal histories or notable achievements. Students can create family timelines or digital recordings of their interviews. Encourage students to reflect on how family histories tie into broader historical narratives, such as the Civil Rights Movement or the Great Migration. Teach them the value of oral histories in preserving culture and understanding personal connections to the past.
12. Interpret famous quotes
We Are Teachers
Present famous quotes (e.g., “The time is always right to do what is right.” —MLK Jr.). Ask students to interpret the quote, identify the historical context, and discuss its relevance today.
Watch, Visit, and Discuss
Ensure films and documentaries are age-appropriate and accompanied by a pre-screening discussion about the historical accuracy and context of what students will see. Consider the accessibility of videos for all students, providing captions, translations, or alternative formats where necessary.
Resources for the activities below:
13. Screen films
Screen films such as Selma (about the Civil Rights Movement) or The Pursuit of Happyness (about the life of Chris Gardner). Follow up with a guided discussion on the historical significance and impact of these events.
14. Watch documentaries
Show educational videos on topics like the Harlem Renaissance or the life of Harriet Tubman. Follow up with guided questions and group discussions.
15. Write movie reviews
Have students write movie reviews or journal entries after watching films, discussing what they learned and how the movie changed or deepened their understanding of Black history.
16. Host comparative film studies
Show films that explore the same topic (e.g., different portrayals of Rosa Parks in The Rosa Parks Story vs. Selma) and ask students to compare and contrast the ways these stories are told.
18. Discuss the significance of HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities)
Organize a virtual tour of an HBCU campus, or arrange for a guest speaker from an HBCU to talk about the experience and opportunities at these institutions. Encourage students to reflect on the significance of HBCUs in shaping Black culture, identity, and history. Incorporate discussions on how HBCUs serve as cultural, social, and intellectual hubs for Black students. Connect this to the broader African American experience, emphasizing how education has been a tool for empowerment.
19. Take a virtual art tour
Take students on a virtual tour of cities known for their African American murals, such as Philadelphia or Detroit. Discuss how murals serve as a visual form of storytelling, activism, and cultural pride. Encourage students to think about the symbolism and themes of murals, and how art can be a powerful tool for social change.
20. Host a guest speaker
If possible, invite a local Black leader or community figure to speak to the class or conduct a virtual interview.
21. Analyze historic photos
Have students analyze historic photos from the Civil Rights Movement, Harlem Renaissance, or Black Power era. Ask them to write or discuss the context, emotions, and historical significance behind the photos. In small groups, students can reenact iconic scenes from Black history based on historic photos, then present their interpretations to the class.
Create and Share
Encourage students to incorporate multimedia, such as music, video clips, and images, to create more engaging presentations that reflect the richness of Black culture. Ensure students understand that Black history is not just about struggle—it is also about achievement, creativity, and community building. Focus on celebrating the diversity of experiences within the Black community.
Resources for the activities below:
22. Share a fact of the day
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Share a daily fact about a prominent Black figure or event. Ask students to create posters or presentations based on these facts.
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23. Play a trivia game
Host a trivia game based on historical facts about Black history. Divide the class into teams and reward correct answers with small prizes or recognition.
24. Encourage journaling
Have students compile a Black History Month fact journal, where they note interesting facts about Black historical figures or events they encounter throughout the month.
25. Decorate your classroom door
Have students help decorate your classroom door with representations of Black leaders, artists, or scholars. Each student can take a part in creating a symbol or image that represents the contributions of Black Americans.
26. Use multimedia to learn about Black sororities and fraternities
Have students create posters or multimedia presentations that showcase the history, values, and impact of organizations like Alpha Phi Alpha, Delta Sigma Theta, or Omega Psi Phi. Highlight the service and leadership aspects of these organizations. Focus on their community outreach, activism, and scholarship programs. Encourage students to think critically about the role of Black fraternities and sororities in shaping Black history and culture.
27. Cook for the class
Have students research famous African American chefs (e.g., Marcus Samuelsson, Edna Lewis, or Leah Chase) and then try to re-create one of their recipes in class. Discuss the cultural significance of African American cuisine, such as the influence of Southern cooking, soul food, and African influences on American cuisine.
28. Write a song
Have students research the history of protest songs (e.g., “Lift Every Voice and Sing”) or the role of music in the Civil Rights Movement. Students can then write their own songs inspired by these movements.
29. Host a Black history STEM fair
We Are Teachers/Illustrated by Kim Holt
Host a class project where students create presentations on famous African American inventors, scientists, engineers, and tech innovators (e.g., George Washington Carver, Mae Jemison, or Dr. Shirley Jackson). Discuss the challenges and contributions of Black individuals in STEM fields, emphasizing how they’ve overcome barriers and broken new ground. Encourage students to explore STEM careers and the importance of diversity in the field.
Kim Holt
30. Create your own animated character
Have students create their own animated characters that reflect their cultural identity. Encourage students to think about the importance of representation in media and how animated films like The Proud Family or Black Panther have helped to normalize and celebrate Black culture in mainstream media.
31. Create a state map
Have students create a map or infographic that shows the unique ways each state observes Black History Month. Encourage students to explore the diversity of Black experiences across the United States and how each region may approach the celebration of African American history differently. Discuss the significance of the month’s designation and its cultural impact.
32. Hold a fashion show
Students can research and present famous African American fashion designers (e.g., Patrick Kelly, Tracy Reese, Dapper Dan) and hold a fashion show showcasing their styles or influence on contemporary fashion.
Research and Present
There’s so much great information out there about Black history. Have students research a famous person or event and present their findings in writing, a Google Slideshow, video, or any other clever way they choose. Check out all of our ideas for research and presentation below.
Resources for the activities below:
33. Make a collaborative Google Slides project
Students can work together to create a presentation on a Black historical figure using Google Slides. The presentation can include images, text, and even short video clips.
34. Assign a Black history research assignment
Have students research a famous Black American (e.g., Maya Angelou, Booker T. Washington, or W.E.B. Du Bois) and create a report or multimedia presentation about their life and contributions.
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35. Utilize an interactive timeline project
Have students create a timeline highlighting key events in the lives of notable Black leaders and activists.
36. Compare and contrast a trailblazer to a new history maker or difference maker
Have students choose a historical trailblazer (e.g., Harriet Tubman, Martin Luther King Jr.) and a new history maker (e.g., Amanda Gorman, LeBron James). Students can debate who has had a greater impact, using evidence and research. Assign students to write essays or create presentations that compare the contributions of these two individuals to society and history.
37. Research Black Wall Street and Black billionaires or New Black Wall Street in Atlanta
Have students research the rise and destruction of Black Wall Street in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and compare it to modern developments like the New Black Wall Street in Atlanta. Invite a local business leader or entrepreneur who is part of the New Black Wall Street to discuss modern-day economic empowerment in Black communities.
38. Conduct state research
Assign each student a state and have them research the history of how Black History Month is celebrated there, including events, significant figures, and local traditions.
39. Research an invention
Have students research everyday products invented by African Americans (e.g., the traffic light by Garrett Morgan, the hair straightener by Madam C.J. Walker).
40. Research a small business
Research successful African American–owned businesses (e.g., Essence, Uncle Nearest whiskey) and have students create business proposals for their own ventures.
Be sensitive and thoughtful when discussing segregation and racism. Provide students with safe spaces to ask questions and express their thoughts. By using these resources creatively and thoughtfully, we can ensure that our Black History Month lessons are engaging, meaningful, and respectful of the rich legacy of Black Americans.
Get your free printable Black history quote posters!
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Be sure to get your free bundle of five Black History Month quote posters. They’re perfect to decorate your classroom in February and throughout the year!
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Fenyx Blue, M.A.Ed., Reading Specialist, Certified SEL Facilitator
The past several years have certainly been unprecedented ones—a pandemic, civil unrest, political turmoil, and more. Through it all, racial injustice has taken center stage. At times, we’ve all navigated uncomfortable conversations, but it’s more important than ever to dig deep and be the leaders our communities deserve. Here’s a list of Black history videos to enlighten students in every grade level.
Jump to:
Plus, download our free printable video response worksheets to pair with the Black history videos. Just click the button below to receive your worksheets.
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FREE PRINTABLE
Video Response Worksheets
Use our free video response worksheets with any of the videos below. There are sections for before, during, and after viewing and a spot to rate the video using a five-star scale.
“I have a dream …” Your students might know Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s words, but what do they know about the iconic civil rights leader who said them?
2. The Life of Rosa Parks
Learn about Rosa Parks, often called the “Mother of the Freedom Movement,” and what made her so brave and remarkable.
3. “I Am Jackie Robinson” by Brad Meltzer | Read-Aloud
Jack Roosevelt Robinson broke the baseball color line and became the first Black man to play major league baseball in the modern era.
4. The Story of Frederick Douglass
Are you learning about the abolitionist movement in the United States? The emancipation and subsequent freedom of Frederick Douglass is explored in this educational video.
5. The Breathtaking Courage of Harriet Tubman
Take a closer look at the life of escaped slave and American icon Harriet Tubman, who liberated more than 700 enslaved people using the Underground Railroad.
6. Muhammad Ali Biography
This video tells the story of Muhammad Ali, a legend in boxing and Black history.
7. Malcolm X (Civil Rights Leader)
Malcolm X was a civil rights leader whose life journey brought him from fighting for equal rights “by any means necessary” to fighting for justice peacefully.
8. “Teach Me About Garvey” Read-Aloud
Teach Me About Garvey shares the story of Marcus Garvey, a Jamaican political activist and founder and first president-general of the Universal Negro Improvement Association and African Communities League, through which he declared himself Provisional President of Africa.
9. Brown v. Board of Education
Brown v. Board of Education was a case brought to the Supreme Court in 1954 after Linda Brown, an African American student in Kansas, was denied access to the white-only schools near her home.
10. “A Picture Book of Jesse Owens” Read-Aloud
Before Usain Bolt or Tyson Gay, Bob Beamon, or Carl Lewis, Jesse Owens was perhaps the greatest and most famous athlete in track-and-field history. A Picture Book of Jesse Owens tells his inspiring story.
11. Black History Month Tribute to Mary McLeod Bethune
Take a trip back in time to celebrate Mary McLeod Bethune, an icon in education.
12. “Little Legends: Exceptional Men in Black History” Read-Aloud
This chapter of Little Legends: Exceptional Men in Black History tells the story of James Mercer Langston Hughes, one of the earliest innovators of jazz poetry. He is best known as a leader of the Harlem Renaissance.
13. “Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History” Read-Aloud
This selection of Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History shares the journey of Ruby Bridges, the first African American child to desegregate the all-white William Frantz Elementary School in Louisiana during the New Orleans school desegregation crisis on November 14, 1960.
14. Sojourner Truth—Abolitionist & Women’s Rights Pioneer
Sojourner Truth was an American abolitionist and women’s rights activist. She was born into slavery but escaped with her infant daughter and became the first Black woman, in 1828, to successfully sue a white man for a family member’s freedom.
15. How Nelson Mandela Fought for Equality and Freedom
Nelson Mandela is famous for his fight against apartheid in South Africa. His unique efforts for peace and reconciliation transformed his country, and he ultimately became president.
16. “Little People, Big Dreams: Maya Angelou” Read-Aloud
In this read-aloud of the international bestseller from the Little People, Big Dreams series, discover the incredible life of Maya Angelou, the powerful speaker, writer, and civil rights activist.
17. Black History Month Profile: Serena Williams
Serena Williams has won 23 Grand Slam tennis singles titles, the most by any player in the Open Era and the second-most of all time.
18. NASA Black History Month Astronaut Profile—Jeanette Epps
NASA astronaut Dr. Jeanette Epps talks about inspiring young girls and recalls who encouraged her to reach for the stars when she was growing up.
19. Calvin Peete Profile: Black History Month
Calvin Peete was the first successful Black player to not move up through the caddie ranks. Now a World Golf Hall of Famer, he won the prestigious Players Championship in 1985.
20. Can Kids Change the World?
The fight for civil rights didn’t just include adults, it included kids like 7-year-old Ayanna Najuma, who braved harsh consequences to make their communities more inclusive. To learn more about Ayanna and other kids who fought for change, visit this resource from Scholastic.
21. Why Do We Celebrate Black History Month? Facts for Kids
Watch as these kids explore how Black History Month was created to honor and celebrate the contributions of Black Americans in the United States.
22. Miss Jessica’s Black History Month Song
This Grammy-nominated song from Miss Jessica’s World is a celebration of Black excellence in America both past and present. You can download the karaoke version for the classroom!
23. Sesame Street: Celebrate Black History Month Compilation
Celebrate Black History Month on Sesame Street! Join Elmo, Gabrielle, and Tamir as they sing their song “Listen, Act, Unite” from Sesame Street’s “Power of We” special. Then, rediscover favorites ranging from Will.I.Am’s “What I Am” to Erykah Badu’s song about friendship.
24. “I Am the Dream” Black History Song for Kids
Head over to Mr. Pete’s Playhouse for this new anthem for kids. “I Am the Dream” inspires kids to believe that they can be and do anything while celebrating the strong Black figures who helped pave the way for them to succeed!
25. “The Undefeated” | Black History Month Kids Read-Aloud
Join Ms. Mera as she reads the powerful book The Undefeated, written by Kwame Alexander and illustrated by Kadir Nelson.
26. What Black Lives Matter Means to Kids
Join the Kind Crew for a powerful episode with motivational speaker Nyeeam Hudson as they share how to use the power of art and honest conversations to fight racism.
27. Meet Dred Scott for Black History Month
This engaging cartoon for kids tells the story of how Scott sued for his and his family’s freedom, ultimately taking their case all the way to the Supreme Court.
28. Discover African American Heroes
This video pays tribute to the remarkable contributions of influential Black individuals throughout history. From civil rights leaders to inventors and artists, explore the inspiring stories of those who have shaped and progressed our society.
29. Emmett Till (Documentary) Black History Month
Learn about Emmett Till, a young boy whose tragic murder became a catalyst for the Civil Rights Movement. This educational video highlights his story and the profound impact it had on exposing racial injustice to the world.
30. Black Scientists and Inventors
Celebrate Black History Month with this engaging animated video that showcases the inspiring lives and achievements of Dr. Daniel Hale Williams, George Washington Carver, Madam C.J. Walker, Garrett A. Morgan, and Mae Jemison. Perfect for kids!
31. The Civil Rights Movement for Kids | What Is Segregation?
This kid-friendly video explains what segregation was and how it shaped life in America before the Civil Rights Movement. Students will learn about separate schools, buses, and public spaces, as well as the brave people who worked to end these unfair laws.
32. Child of the Civil Rights Movement
Told through the eyes of a young girl, this story brings the Civil Rights Movement to life for children. Paula Young Shelton, the daughter of activist Andrew Young, shares her memories of growing up surrounded by leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and marching for justice in Selma.
Black History Month Videos for Middle and High School
33. Black Lives Matter: Crash Course Black American History #51
Learn about the Black Lives Matter movement and some of the major events that contributed to the rise of BLM, including the deaths of Trayvon Martin, Michael Brown, Eric Garner, and George Floyd, and the way that social media was used to gain support for the movement.
34. Dred Scott v. Sandford
Dred Scott sued his master for his freedom, and Judge Robert Taney ultimately issued two historically consequential rulings. First, African Americans were not citizens and had no right to sue in court. Second, Congress did not have the constitutional authority to ban slavery from the states.
35. Jesse Jackson: Crash Course Black American History #44
Reverend Jesse Jackson is a civil rights activist and icon who began his long career working with Martin Luther King Jr. in the 1960s and continues to contribute to the movement for Black rights today.
36. Emmett Till—American Freedom Stories
On August 24, 1955, a white cashier lied and claimed that 14-year-old Emmett Till flirted with her. Four days later, two white men tortured and murdered the teenager. His murder galvanized the emerging Civil Rights Movement. This is one of the most moving Black history videos for students.
37. Harriet Tubman: Biography
Harriet Tubman was an incredibly brave woman who risked her own life to free hundreds of slaves from plantations via the Underground Railroad.
38. Shirley Chisholm: Crash Course Black American History #43
In 1972, Shirley Chisholm ran for president of the United States of America. While she didn’t win, she did have an incredible career in politics, holding a congressional seat in the New York delegation for decades.
39. The Electrifying Speeches of Sojourner Truth
Get to know the story of Sojourner Truth, a woman born into slavery who became known as a powerful orator and outspoken activist.
40. Marcus Garvey: Biography
Marcus Garvey was an orator for the Black Nationalism and Pan-Africanism movements, and although at times controversial, he is considered a national hero in Jamaica and inspired the Rastafari movement.
41. Brown v. Board of Education in PBS’s The Supreme Court
This video covers the Supreme Court’s historical rejection of segregation in Southern schools. This is one of the most relevant Black history videos for students on this list!
42. Women and the Black Power Movement: Crash Course Black American History #40
Women have always been a powerful (and largely underappreciated) force in the movement for Black equality in the United States. Learn more about how women contributed to several organizations and the Black Arts Movement.
43. NASA Black History Month Employee Profile: Matthew Bailey
Matthew Bailey is the operations manager for the National Transonic Facility Complex at NASA’s Langley Research Center. The facility is currently testing a model of the Space Launch System, the rocket that will send humans to the moon.
44. Anita Hill and Clarence Thomas: Crash Course Black American History #46
Revisit the Supreme Court confirmation hearing of Clarence Thomas during which Anita Hill testified that Thomas, her former coworker, had sexually harassed her when they worked at the Department of Education. Thomas’ nomination was ultimately confirmed by a margin of 52-48, making him the second Black American appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court.
45. Oprah Winfrey—American Media Proprietor and Talk Show Host
Watch a mini-biography of Oprah Winfrey, who ascended from an impoverished childhood to become one of the most powerful and influential celebrities in the world.
46. Rap and Hip-Hop: Crash Course Black American History #47
Learn more about the origins of rap and hip-hop and the cultural significance of artists including Public Enemy, Wu-Tang Clan, the Notorious B.I.G., Tupac, N.W.A., Queen Latifah, and Missy Elliott.
47. Black History Month Profile: Gloria Walton
Gloria Walton is the CEO and president of the Solutions Project, a national nonprofit that helps fund organizations looking to create climate solutions in communities of color.
48. Moments in History: Remembering Thurgood Marshall
Thurgood Marshall was one of the country’s greatest jurists and civil rights advocates, but he was also a gifted storyteller.
49. The Tuskegee Experiment: Crash Course Black American History #29
This video covers a dark and horrifying chapter in American history: the Tuskegee Syphilis Experiment. The experiment was carried out by the U.S. Public Health Service and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention from 1932 to 1972.
50. Civil Rights and the 1950s
Take a trip back to America in the 1950s and the early days of the Civil Rights Movement.
51. The Harlem Renaissance: Crash Course Theater
In the 1920s, there was a blossoming of all kinds of art made by Black people in Harlem. Authors like Langston Hughes and Zora Neale Hurston were writing plays, and Black theater companies were drawing larger audiences than ever before.
52. The Black Panther Party: Crash Course Black American History #39
Learn about the Black Panthers, a relatively small, relatively political party that made it their mission to expand the rights of Black Americans and had a major impact on U.S. history.
53. Quincy Jones Biography: Life and Career of the Producer and Composer
This short documentary celebrates the legendary life and career of top American jazz musician, composer, arranger, record producer, and entrepreneur Quincy Jones.
54. Equal Protection: The 14th Amendment
Spark a discussion on the 14th Amendment with a focus on the “equal protection” clause and how it relates to civil rights.
55. Nelson Mandela: Civil Rights Activist & President of South Africa
Nelson Mandela was a nonviolent anti-apartheid activist, politician, and philanthropist who became South Africa’s first Black president.
56. Maya Angelou—Civil Rights Activist & Author
Maya Angelou was an American author, actress, screenwriter, dancer, poet, and civil rights activist best known for her 1969 memoir, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.
57. Beyoncé Is the Highest-Grossing R&B Artist
In honor of Black History Month, Billboard featured Beyoncé, highlighting some of her most incredible achievements.
58. Hurricane Katrina: Crash Course Black American History #49
Crash Course’s Clint Smith discusses his experience as a teen in 2005 when Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans. Black residents were hit the hardest, with structural racism playing a catastrophic role.
59. Serena Williams and Misogynoir: The Meaning of Sexism and Racism Towards Black Women
Author and SUNY Stony Brook professor Crystal M. Fleming explains what misogynoir means and why Serena Williams calling out sexism at the 2018 U.S. Open Final was a critical moment for Black women.
60. Barack Obama: Crash Course Black American History #50
Barack Obama was the first Black man elected president of the United States, in 2008. Learn more about his early life, political career, presidential campaign, and legislative milestones.
61. Black Lives Matter Movement
Watch Global Citizens share their thoughts on the Black Lives Matter movement. This is one of the best Black history videos for students right now.
62. Origins of Black History Month
Discover the history behind February becoming the month dedicated to honoring the accomplishments and contributions of African Americans in the United States and beyond.
63. Black History Month Celebration: African Dance
This vibrant display celebrated African heritage and honored the contributions of Black individuals throughout history.
64. The Great Migration: Crash Course Black American History #24
Between 1916 and 1970, more than 6 million Black Americans moved from the rural South to cities in the North and West. This Crash Course episode explores how the Great Migration transformed American culture, reshaped communities, and laid the groundwork for new forms of activism and expression.
65. The Hidden History of Black Georgetown
Long before Georgetown became one of Washington, D.C.’s most famous neighborhoods, it was home to a thriving Black community whose stories were nearly forgotten. This short documentary uncovers the lives, struggles, and successes of the people who helped shape the city’s history from its earliest days.
66. Bear Witness, Take Action 2: Continuing the Movement
This powerful YouTube Originals special brings together artists, activists, and thought leaders to reflect on racial injustice and the ongoing fight for equality. Through personal stories, performances, and honest conversations, the film encourages viewers to learn, reflect, and take meaningful action in their own communities.
Get your free printable video response worksheets!
We Are Teachers
Use our video response worksheets with any of the videos listed above. The free printables come with sections for before, during, and after viewing and a spot to rate the video using a five-star scale. Simply fill out the form at the link below to get started!
Five years after 2020’s global reckoning, Black creatives all over the world are finding that progress towards a more representative future has slowed – and in some instances started to backslide.
While the month is a time for celebration, it’s also an important time to reflect on how we can use our voices to improve the quality of life for Black people around us – in both our personal and professional relationships – to make space for and uplift them. Not to mention, opening your purse to support Black-owned brands.
For Black people, it’s a great time to shout about our successes, highlight those who helped us get there and wedge the door open behind us to allow for another generation of young Black creatives to find their own success in the future.
With that said, we’ve rounded up 19 of our favourite Next-Gen Black creatives that you need to know about this Black History Month to find out their current beauty obsessions, how they’re navigating the industry right now and their favourite Black beauty rituals. Scroll on to find out more.
Nail technician and creative artist
What is the landscape like for Black beauty creatives right now, and how are you navigating it?
Black creatives are thriving in the beauty industry right now. We’re becoming more aware of the influence and impact we have not just culturally, but economically too. Black consumers invest heavily in beauty, from hair and makeup to nails, which naturally creates more opportunities for growth and representation within the industry.
For me, navigating this space has felt quite organic because I lead with authenticity. I’m intentional about sharing both my highs and my lows, which then helps people connect with the real journey behind the work. Collaboration is also a huge part of what I do. I love educating others about my craft and building genuine relationships with my audience and peers, because that’s where true growth and community happen.
Doing my nails is a huge Black beauty ritual for me. It’s my favourite thing to do because getting my nails done regularly is a form of self-expression and empowerment. I love using bold colours, intricate designs and embellishments that celebrate creativity and individuality.
Yes, we’re aware that February is still several months away. But we also love to celebrate Black history whenever we can, especially when we can see it happen in real time. You may have heard of Taylor Cassidy or seen one of the many videos from her Fast Black History TikTok series. Today, she’s just released her debut nonfiction book, Black History is Your History!
This book highlights twelve Black historical figures who have all left a major impact on American history, figures who deserve more than a few bullet points on a slideshow presentation. We at THP are so in love with the concept and messaging behind this book. Here are just three things we love about Taylor Cassidy’s debut and why it’s a must-read for everyone!
Image Source: Simon & Schuster
Book Overview: Black History Is Your History
Summary:Meet Taylor Cassidy, Black history enthusiast and creator of the viral TikTok series Fast Black History. In her debut book, Taylor takes readers on a journey through the Black history she wishes she was taught in school. With sparkling wit and humor—and lots of fun pop culture references—she paints a vibrant picture of twelve figures from Black history whose groundbreaking contributions shaped America as we know it today. Introducing icons from activists to literary giants, movie stars to Olympic gold medalists, fashion designers to astronauts, and more, this one-of-a-kind collection makes Black history relatable, relevant, and utterly irresistible.
Using Black history as inspiration, Taylor weaves together research and personal anecdotes that illuminate each trailblazer’s impact on her own life—as well as sharing plenty of triumphant, funny, and embarrassing moments from her past. From navigating friend breakups and unrequited crushes to setting boundaries and fighting self-doubt, Taylor’s been there…and she’s learned some valuable life lessons along the way.
This book is a joyful celebration of Black history makers, and you’re invited to the party. Come on in and let these twelve true stories inspire you to make history of your own!
The Author’s Voice
One of our absolute favorite things about Black History is Your History is the author Taylor’s voice. She personalizes this book by sharing snippets from her own life and her history (or should we say, “her-story”). Taylor explains the impact of each historical figure with a personal anecdote or a life lesson that she carries with her. Her narration is so relatable and charming. And it makes us feel like we’re sitting with her and having a chat over coffee and lunch. We finished this book in a blink of an eye, and we’d do it all over again if she wanted to add more installments down the line.
Much-Needed Diversity
We can’t talk about Black History is Your History without shouting out the diverse representation, not just in the historical figures but also in the wide range of stories. From almanac author Benjamin Banneker in the 18th century to actress Cicely Tyson in the 20th century, there is something inspirational for everyone. Not to mention the intersectionality of identities in prominent figures like gay liberation activist Marsha P. Johnson as well as astronaut and engineer Mae Jemison, the first African-American woman to travel to space.
Educational And Enjoyable
Though we recognized many names in this book, we loved reading the extra background that we would’ve missed in regular history lessons. We also get commentary from the author in sections she dubbed as “Taystory.” One of the stories that most stood out to us was about Tommie Smith, former track-and-field athlete. After winning gold in the 1968 Olympics, he and his teammate John Carlos (who’d won the bronze medal) raised their black-gloved fists on the victory podium in protest of racism and discrimination. While we’d heard of this event briefly before, reading about it again gave us chills.
From the creator of Fast Black History videos comes an educational debut book we finished in the blink of an eye. Taylor Cassidy’s Black History is Your History is utterly witty and inspirational.
Black History is Your History by Taylor Cassidy comes out October 14th, and you can order a copy of it here!
What do you think of Taylor Cassidy’s debut book? Have you been following her Fast Black History series on TikTok? Let us know on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram!
McCloud says farming in his family started with his great-great-grandmother, Mary Reddick, and her son, Alfred Beal, whom Bealsville is named after
He says Reddick was one of 12 slaves who were freed in 1865
Sylvester is also working on a newspaper that will focus on the history of Bealsville, which he hopes to launch in March
Bit by bit, Sylvester McCloud is farming, pulling what he knows from his roots.
“When I was eight years old, Dad had us in the backyard doing this,” he said. “It’s been in the family for over two hundred years.”
But this is new.
He just opened the Bealsville Farmers and Flea Market earlier this month.
Sylvester McCloud’s family helping with harvesting for the farmers market. (Spectrum News/Julia Hazel)
It operates on the honor system: people come, pick their crops, and leave cash behind.
“I got collard greens, I got mustards, I got turnips, I got cabbage,” he said.
It’s a business that he’s growing from the heart.
“It’s been in our family for over 200 years”
Sylvester McCloud is a #Bealsville native. He recently started a farmers market to keep his family’s history alive in the community. Now as he celebrates #BlackHistoryMonth he’s eager to share his history. Tune in @BN9pic.twitter.com/lssANUWZoz
“It feels natural. It feels good that I can do something my ancestors did,” McCloud said.
He says farming in his family started with his great-great-grandmother, Mary Reddick, and her son, Alfred Beal, whom Bealsville is named after.
McCloud says Reddick was one of 12 slaves who were freed in 1865.
“They did that for the overseer, then the overseer said, ‘I can’t pay you, but we can sharecrop.’ So they got their land, and they sharecropped,” he said.
Now, he’s carrying on the family legacy, but with the help of modern technology.
McCloud has a Facebook Marketplace page, where he lists his produce.
“We are getting busy,” he said.
He’s also getting smarter and thinking about what this food market could bring to the community.
“I hope to get some of the youngsters out here to take an interest,” he said.
Much like the rain fuels the soil, McCloud hopes that the history of his family in farming fuels continued growth for his new business.
McCloud is also working on a newspaper that will focus on the history of Bealsville, which he hopes to launch in March.
