Connecting the past and present: 10 resources for reflecting on Black history & culture
February is Black History Month, a dedicated time to be intentional in our recognition of the achievements and contributions of Black people throughout history, particularly in the United States. It's a time to reflect on the struggles and triumphs of Black communities, to celebrate Black culture and heritage, and to educate communities about how Black history and culture has shaped—and continues to shape—our society.
The Making Caring Common team compiled the following list of resources for learning about, reflecting on, and celebrating Black history. While many of the links below were developed for use in the classroom, they are also well suited for families.
Not sure where to start? Check out these tips from Learning for Justice.
Facing History and Ourselves uses lessons of history to challenge educators and students to stand up to bigotry and hate.
Try: Reflecting on Amanda Gorman's "The Hill We Climb," Identity, Race and the Classroom, Part 1
The GGSC explores the roots of happy and compassionate individuals, strong social bonds, and altruistic behavior—the science of a meaningful life.
Try: What Happens When You Tell Your Story and I Tell Mine?, Can Mindfulness Help Reduce Racism?
Learning for Justice, founded by the Southern Poverty Law Center, seeks to further the Center’s mission to be a catalyst for racial justice in the South and beyond, working in partnership with communities to dismantle white supremacy, strengthen intersectional movements and advance the human rights of all people.
Try: Why Teaching Black Lives Matter Matters | Part I, Bringing Black Lives Matter Into the Classroom | Part II
Morningside Center for Teaching Social Responsibility
Morningside Center works hand in hand with educators to build students' social and emotional skills, strengthen the classroom and school community, and make our schools more caring and equitable through restorative practices and brave conversations on race.
Try: Juneteenth & the Importance of History, Teaching Black History
National Education Association
The National Education Association (NEA) is more than 3 million people—educators, students, activists, workers, parents, neighbors, friends—who believe in opportunity for all students and in the power of public education to transform lives and create a more just and inclusive society.
Try: Black History Month Lessons & Resources
Othering & Belonging Institute
The Othering & Belonging Institute at UC Berkeley brings together researchers, organizers, stakeholders, communicators, and policymakers to identify and eliminate the barriers to an inclusive, just, and sustainable society in order to create transformative change.
Try: Belonging: A Weekly Practice, Structural Racism Explained
PBS produces educational media to help prepare children for success in school and open up the world to them in an age-appropriate way.
Try: How history of racism continues to shape America, Selma to Montgomery Marches
PBS KIDS believes the world is full of possibilities, and so is every child. Through television, digital media, and community-based programs, PBS KIDS wants children to see themselves uniquely reflected and celebrated in lovable, diverse characters who serve as positive role models, and to explore their feelings and discover new adventures along the way.
Try: Xavier Riddle & the Secret Museum | I am Rosa Parks / I am Thurgood Marshall, Read Along with Misty Copeland! | Bunheads
Sesame Street’s YouTube channel offers a range of short, preschool-friendly videos on a variety of topics.
Try: Happy Black History Month!, Let's Celebrate Black History Song!
Smithsonian’s History Explorer
Smithsonian's History Explorer was developed by the National Museum of American History and is designed for use by K-12 teachers and students, afterschool program providers, families, and individuals interested in lifelong learning.
Posted by the Making Caring Common team
