Free Black History Month Events
Black History Month occurs annually in February to recognize the contributions made by peoples of African descent in U.S. society. Originally, this recognition lasted one week, National Negro Week, pioneered by historian Carter G. Woodson in 1925. In 1976, President Gerald Ford lengthened National Negro Week to Black History Month to enhance understanding and appreciation of black history in the United States. Throughout the month, opportunities abound to learn about black history.
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Historic Sites
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Using the National Register of Historic Places, you can find a place near you that directly links your hometown to black history -- from the birthplace of well-known figures such as Martin Luther King Jr. to the home of Langston Hughes, famous author during the Harlem Renaissance. The National Register also offers trip itineraries and lesson plans for planning and educational purposes. Many of the historic places you can visit host special events during Black History Month.
Libraries
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Many libraries select themes each year in celebration of African-American achievements; looking at more than one library in your area will help you find the focus that best fits your interests. History of slavery, the Civil War, the Underground Railroad, the Civil Rights movement and African-American women rate as common and fascinating themes around which libraries build lecture series throughout February.
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Colleges
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Not exclusively for students, college campuses educate the community at large by hosting cultural events. Black History Month is widely celebrated on college campuses across the United States, with events hosted by history and ethnic studies departments. Often free, many of the black history celebrations at colleges include cinema screenings, jazz concerts and stimulating lectures on African-American topics. Most colleges host events all year that pertain to the African Diaspora, so you don't have to limit your interest in black history to February alone.
Be Creative
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The purpose of Black History Month is to acknowledge the many ways in which the peoples from Africa and their descendants contributed to American life. To embody of the spirit of Black History Month, you can design a series of events for your friends and family, such as attending a local art show that showcases African-American art or listening to a gospel choir performing in your area. You could design a quiz that tests your friends' and family's knowledge of black inventors, authors and political figures.
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References
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