Honoring Ourselves: Celebrating Black History in 2025 and Beyond
Photo Credit: yurakrasil via Adobe Stock
By: Jamila Gomez
In the face of ongoing efforts to erase Black history from textbooks, public discourse, and policy, it is more important than ever for Black people to actively celebrate themselves—not just in February, but every single day. Black history is American history, and despite the challenges posed by the current political climate, we must continue to uplift our stories, honor our ancestors, and celebrate our contributions to society. Here’s how we can do just that in 2025 and for the next four years.
1. Control the Narrative
If they won’t teach our history, we will. Invest time in learning and sharing Black history through books, documentaries, podcasts, and oral storytelling. Read works by Black scholars like Carter G. Woodson, bell hooks, and Ibram X. Kendi. Start community book clubs or host teach-ins at churches, barbershops, and online spaces to educate one another.
2. Support Black-Owned Businesses
Economic empowerment is a revolutionary act. Make a conscious effort to support Black entrepreneurs, from restaurants and bookstores to fashion designers and tech startups. Apps like WeBuyBlack and Official Black Wall Street can help you find businesses that deserve your dollars.
3. Elevate Black Art and Culture
From the Harlem Renaissance to Afrofuturism, Black artistry has always been a vehicle for resistance and joy. Attend Black theater productions, concerts, and museum exhibits. Share and celebrate Black literature, film, and music on social media. Even hosting a movie night with films like The Woman King, Black Panther, or Selma is a way to affirm our stories.
4. Get Politically Engaged
Attempts to erase Black history are deeply tied to efforts to suppress Black political power. Stay informed about policies that affect Black communities and vote in every election. Support grassroots organizations fighting for racial justice, and consider running for local office or joining advocacy groups that challenge harmful policies.
5. Prioritize Black Mental Health and Wellness
Resistance is exhausting, but self-care is revolutionary. Whether it’s therapy, yoga, meditation, or simply resting without guilt, taking care of yourself is vital. Follow Black wellness advocates and engage in practices that nourish your body and mind.
6. Teach the Next Generation
If they’re trying to keep Black history out of schools, we must ensure our children still learn it. Create home libraries filled with Black literature, enroll them in programs like Freedom Schools, and teach them about their heritage with pride.
7. Celebrate Each Other Daily
Black joy is resistance. Celebrate birthdays, achievements, and everyday moments with intentional love. Show appreciation for the people in your life, mentor young Black professionals, and support one another unapologetically.
No matter how hard they try to erase us, we are still here—thriving, creating, and shaping the future. Black History Month is every day, and our celebration is a testament to our resilience and power.
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