Celebrating Black History — All Year Long

Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans. It is a time to recognize the central role of the Black community in our shared history. Also known as African American History Month, the event grew out of “Negro History Week,” created by historian Carter G. Woodson and other prominent African Americans. Every U.S. president since 1976 has recognized the month of February as Black History Month.

But should our commitment to studying the achievements and understanding the impact of our nation’s history be confined to February? Interfaith Alliance of Iowa and the faith leaders who are part of Faithful Voices for Racial Justice encourage communities of faith and all Iowans to commit to the study of racism and to take action for racial justice each and every day.

Faith leaders who participate in Faithful Voices for Racial Justice, a project of Interfaith Alliance of Iowa, encourage faith communities across Iowa to explore and highlight achievements of Black Americans and Black communities. Faith communities can highlight specific examples of the successes and contributions in Iowa, our nation, faith traditions, and denominations. Ways to do that include stories in newsletters, social media, and other publications as well as sermon illustrations and readings during worship or gatherings. Also consider study options with small groups, including youth groups.

Black History Month Resources:

Becoming Beloved Community – Episcopal Diocese of Iowa

Anti-Racism Action Calendar (Disciples of Christ) 

29 ways to participate in Black History Month – United Methodist Church

African American Museum of Iowa

National Museum of African American History & Culture

African American History Month

African American Heritage – National Archives

Black History Month – History.com

If you have additional online resources regarding Black History Month, the contributions of Black Americans, or faith resources on the topic, please forward the link to kristin@interfaithallianceiowa.org.