While Black excellence deserves to be celebrated every day, Black History Month offers a dedicated time to spotlight the power and resilience of the Black community.

February’s celebration is a reminder to seek out stories and histories that, sadly, often go overlooked - but it also serves as a call to honour the incredible contributions that the Black community has made throughout US and international history. From civil rights leaders to artists, politicians and inventors, this month we celebrate the Black history that’s being made today and every day.

And while many rightfully give side-eye to the fact that there are only 28 (or sometimes 29) days to celebrate the achievements of Black people - which, yeah, is not enough - there’s still a lot you can do to show your appreciation. Here are just a few ways you can celebrate this Black History Month.

1. SUPPORT BLACK-OWNED BUSINESSES

Spending your money at a Black-owned business is an impactful form of economic empowerment and a great way to give directly to the Black community, during Black History Month and beyond. 

Many Black-owned businesses still face structural racism, which poses a threat to their longevity and ability to serve their communities’ needs. Becoming a customer - specifically during February when these companies have a lot more visibility - is a great way to show your appreciation

To find Black-owned businesses near you, try Black2Black (UK) or Support Black Owned (US). 

2. CELEBRATE BLACK LITERATURE

Literature, both nonfiction and fiction, is a crucial way for marginalised communities to claim ownership over their experiences.

Taking accountability and prioritising our learning helps ensure that we go beyond the ‘surface-level’ of support; that we’re doing more than just ‘blindly’ posting a black square on Instagram because that’s what everyone else is doing.

This month, swap out some of your classics for modern books by Black authors. We recommend:

• The Autobiography of Malcolm X by Alex Hayley and Malcom X.
• An American Marriage by Tayari Jones.
• Girl, Woman, Other by Bernadine Evaristo. 

3. DONATE TO CHARITIES THAT SUPPORT ANTI-RACISM EQUITY & EQUALITY

Racial justice activists work tirelessly around the clock to advocate for the equal treatment of Black people. From tackling police brutality to supporting trans people of colour in leadership roles, there are a number of charities and nonprofits who exist to provide ongoing support for the Black community. 

This month, consider donating money - or your time - to one of the nonprofits below.

• NAACP - a historic organisation supporting the political, educational, social and economic equality of the Black community.
• Trans Women of Color Collective - a grassroot organisation supporting trans and gender-nonconforming people of colour in leadership roles.
• Black Women Rising - a UK charity offering vital support, information and practical advice for people of colour who have been diagnosed with cancer.

4. LEARN ABOUT THE UNSUNG HEROES OF BLACK HISTORY

History classes often focus on the victories of white men, but that’s only part of the story. 

During Black History Month 2023, educate yourself about the struggles and triumphs of the Black community, especially those who are often overlooked, such as Claudette Colvin, Fred Hampton and Pauli Murray. While digging up overlooked stories can take time and effort, the payoff is a more comprehensive understanding of what the past really looked like. 

5. WATCH A BLACK HISTORY DOCUMENTARY OR FILM

Reading, listening and watching are an important step to coming to terms with our own privilege, sitting with our discomfort, and using it to support Black communities. We may not always get it right, and we certainly won’t ever properly understand how it feels, but what we can do is use this time to learn.

Here are just a few films you can watch. We hope you can join us in using them as a starting point to researching further and doing better:

• 13th.
• Monster.
• I Am Not Your Negro.

6. SUPPORT BLACK CREATIVES

From authors to actors and musicians, Black creatives play a key role in creating and sustaining Black culture. 

This Black History Month US, take time to support the contributions and achievements of the Black community. Championing Black creativity can be as simple - and as rewarding - as streaming the music of Black artists or attending an event that showcases their talent.

Discover more here as we amplify and share the stories of our Black athletes. 

7. ATTEND BLACK HISTORY MONTH CELEBRATIONS

Take things one step further and dive deeper into Black history by attending a virtual or in-person event.

Online you’ll find everything from talks about mental health and the stories of women of colour to virtual festivals and food workshops. Discover more here.

Outside of the virtual world, there’s no shortage of events and celebrations, too. You could visit a museum or art exhibition, attend a theatrical or musical performance or even sign up to a poetry event. When it comes to celebrating Black History Month, it’s important to expand your horizons. Your learning should never stop, because this work will take a lifetime.

8. SEEK OUT BLACK HISTORY IN YOUR LOCAL AREA

Although we may not always realise it, Black history is everywhere. This February, go beyond what your history classes taught you by learning about historical Black influencers in your own community.

Visit a local museum that showcases the contributions of the Black community to where you live or visit your local library to read about the achievements and victories of Black leaders in your community’s past. 

In other words, get to know how Black history has had an influence on your present - then spread that knowledge and appreciate it moving forward. 

Celebrating Black History Month can absolutely vary, but any of these ideas are never a bad idea. Even though you can (and you should) do this every day, this month can be a particular time of focus.

When it comes down to it, learning about Black history, struggles and achievements help us understand Black culture and makes it possible for Black people everywhere to be inspired by those who came before them.

To learn more about the origins and significance of Black History Month, check out our blog here.