Black History Month

Black History Month is a time to spotlight more than 400 years of Black history and heritage in our nation’s history. It includes shared stories, struggles, journeys, and achievements.

Black communities have made and continue to make valuable contributions in the history of our nation’s economic, cultural, spiritual, and political development. Let us never forget that Black history should be commemorated and celebrated throughout the year!

2024 Theme – African Americans and the Arts

African American art is a vibrant tapestry woven from the threads of Africa, the Caribbean, and Black America, leaving an indelible mark on visual and performing arts, literature, music, and more. Rooted in lived experiences, these artists not only preserve history but also empower through their craft, shaping a lasting legacy that sets global cultural standards. Despite historical denial, their contributions, from spirituals to blues and literature, persist unbroken through time. The 1920s and 30s marked the Black Renaissance and New Negro Movement, thrusting Black Arts onto the world stage. Today, in 2024, we continue to explore this rich history that has profoundly shaped our cultural landscape.

Suggestions to commemorate this month:

• Learn about songs, art, shared stories, and other mediums that speak of Black history.
• Join ongoing projects that research, highlight, and support understanding of Black history from different perspectives.
• Discover Black scientists, writers, advocates, artists, leaders, and many other important Black voices from past & contemporary times.
• Encourage friends & family to take this learning journey with you!

THPRD Events:

• February 2: Movies Honoring Black History Through Sports (Tualatin Hills Athletic Center)
• February 10: Movies Honoring Black History Through Sports (Tualatin Hills Athletic Center)
• February 12: Movies Honoring Black History Through Sports (Tualatin Hills Athletic Center)
• February 20: Movies Honoring Black History Through Sports (Tualatin Hills Athletic Center)
• February 25: Movies Honoring Black History Through Sports (Tualatin Hills Athletic Center)

Celebrate Black History Month in Portland Metro area:

• 2024 Cascade Festival of African Films
• PDX 2024 Jazz Festival

Additional Resources:

• The Origins of Black History Month- ASALH - Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASNLH).
• 2024 Theme – African Americans and the Arts - When Carter G. Woodson established Negro History week in 1926, he realized the importance of providing a theme to focus the attention of the public. The intention has never been to dictate or limit the exploration of the Black experience, but to bring to the public’s attention important developments that merit emphasis. ASALH - Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASNLH).
• Learn about the origins of Black History month on the History Channel Website
• National Museum of African American History and Culture: Explore the collections, exhibits, and educational resources offered by the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture.
• Black History Month The official website for African American History Month, featuring a variety of resources and information on events happening nationwide.
• Biography: Black History: Biography.com offers a collection of articles and biographies highlighting the achievements and contributions of Black individuals throughout history. Celebrating Black Excellence
• PBS Black Culture Connection: PBS provides a rich collection of documentaries, films, and educational materials celebrating Black culture and history.
• Smithsonian Education - Black History Month: Smithsonian Education provides lesson plans, activities, and resources for teachers to incorporate Black history into their curriculum. Lessons Plans
• Smithsonian - African American Art in the 20th Century The Smithsonian American Art Museum is home to one of the most significant collections of African American art in the world. In 2019, SAAM organized the exhibition African American Art in the 20th Century that is traveling to several cities across the United States.
• The Studio Museum in Harlem: Explore contemporary art by African and African American artists through exhibitions and programs at The Studio Museum in Harlem.
• National Black Arts Festival: The National Black Arts Festival celebrates African American culture through various art forms, including music, dance, literature, and visual arts.
• Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture The Schomburg Center, a branch of the New York Public Library, is a research facility dedicated to the study of the history and culture of people of African descent.
• Black History Month at the Kennedy Center The Kennedy Center hosts events, performances, and programs celebrating Black History Month, featuring a range of artistic expressions.
• African American Art in the 20th Century: PBS provides a documentary exploring African American art in the 20th century, showcasing the work of influential artists.