Black history month was designed to highlight, celebrate and educate others of past and present African American figures who contributed to African American (blacks) culture. Black History month was first coined as Negro history week by Carter Woodson who intention was to highlighted the achievements of African Americans in Febuary and the history. It appears that African Americans are often questioned about why they get a month to celebrate Black history. Given that African Americans have contributed so much to history, one “short” month doesn’t do them justice. There cannot be history if African Americans are not a part of it. By recognizing and bringing the works of African Americans who might not be famous to light, gives everyone the opportunity to appreciate and acknowledge their hard work.
In today’s world we all have or will come in contact with someone of color. In our classroom, work environments, social lives, personal lives and families. No matter where we go, there is a chance that we will become friends with someone of African descent. Having a diverse group of friends can be good and fun but there will be challenging times that test your friendship. When navigating our relationships with our Black friends it is important to understand and acknowledge the challenges they are faced with everyday.
During these times we might not understand how it feels or what African Americans are thinking mentally because we may have never experienced their walk on any level. Some tips that will help get you started in learning how to assist your friend through black history month and beyond are listed below.
Acknowledge your privilege, bias and -isms first!
Make a conscious effort to understand Black history
Connect with key spoken people of the African American community and immerse into that community.
Cultural Humility-self reflect and self critique your own beliefs. Examine your own cultural identities.
Be more open to listen and learning instead of talking and disputing
Educate, Appreciate but don’t appropriate
Research about hidden figures that contributed to African American culture who might not be well known.
Do not remain silent in the face of racism
Get involved with changing policy through petitions, protest and advocacy
Buy from Black own business
Expand your mind and have empathy toward African Americans
Holding others accountable and challenging them on the things that they say or their own beliefs such as family and friends.
Join organizations of African Americans professionals
Be apart of a group discussion
Mentor and educate youth, our future
Most importantly, get comfortable with being uncomfortable with having discussions regarding race.
Although there might be more you can do, the list above is a start. If you have friends and colleagues, blended family, etc the best thing you can do is ask them how and in what ways you can support them. Either you are part of the problem or part of the solution. You choose. Here at Niyyah Counseling PLLC, we have a diverse group of therapists ready to support you in any way we can. Contact us today!!