February marks the start of Black History Month, a federally recognized month-long observance originating in the United States. (Now also observed in Canada, Ireland the United Kingdom.) It’s a time when the country collectively comes together to honor Black achievement and recognize the struggles of African Americans throughout U.S. history. 

 

It started as the brainchild of Carter G. Woodson in the early 1920s. Known as the “father of Black history,” this Harvard-trained historian’s Association for the Study of Negro Life and History aimed to encourage “people of all ethnic and social backgrounds to discuss the Black experience.” What was initially known as Negro History Week continued to grow in popularity, eventually evolving into Black History Month before finally receiving official recognition from President Gerald Ford in 1976. 

 

Fast forward to 2022, and its significance only continues to increase. Black History Month provides a “fresh reminder to take stock of where systemic racism persists and gives visibility to the people and organizations creating change.”

 

And in that spirit, we want to take this time to highlight a few of the many movements that have taken up that mantle for change and are leading the charge. We invite you to thoughtfully consider how you can show your support, not just in February but all year long. 

 

Black Artists + Designers Guild: An inclusive, equity-driven safe space for people of all genders, sexual orientations, and beliefs. They aim to advance a community of Black makers and build inclusive and equitable spaces.

 

Loveland Therapy Fund: This foundation is committed to bringing healing to communities of color, especially Black women ad girls. Through fellowships, residency programs, listenings, tours, and more, they hope to contribute to the empowerment and the liberation of the communities they serve. 

 

Color of Change: The nation’s largest online racial justice organization with over 7 million members, they move decision-makers in corporations and government to create a more human and less world for Black people in America. 

 

Equal Justice Initiative: Committed to ending mass incarceration and excessive punishment in the United States, challenging racial and economic injustice, and protecting fundamental human rights for the most vulnerable people in American society. 

 

The National Coalition on Black Civic Participation: A non-partisan civic engagement organization strives to expand, strengthen, and empower Black communities through technology, educational programs, and civic leadership training. 

 

black girls breathing: A safe space for black women to actively manage their mental health through breathwork and community. Their work has impacted thousands of Black women across the globe by providing free and accessible mental health care to an overlooked population.

 

Who would you add to this list? Give them a shout-out in the comments below!