Black History Month

02/02/2024

Black History Month

Black History Month occurs every February to celebrate the rich cultural heritage, triumphs, and adversities that are an indelible part of our country’s history. Carter G Woodson is a famous scholar known for his dedication to honor the achievements of Black people, which led to the first observance of Black History Month in 1976.

This year the theme is “African Americans and the Arts.” African American artists, poets, writers, visual artists, and their crafts will be recognized for outstanding work. The Smithsonian Institute will be highlighting “the art of resistance” and the artists who use their voices and talents to uplift the race, speak truth to power, and inspire a nation.

If you are looking for curriculum support or library worksheets there are many sites ready to support Black History Month.

1. Teach Starter (https://www.teachstarter.com/) provides worksheets, coloring pages, biography timelines, and more free downloadable resources for use in your library or school.
2. Teachers Pay Teachers (https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/) have free downloadable poems and readers theatre scripts.
3. Rap Opera (https://rapoperaforkids.com/black-history-month-skits-for-elementary/) has a Black History Month skit, free for elementary schools.

The importance of Black History Month, celebrating ingenuity, talent, and achievements of African Americans is something we all should embrace. Let’s celebrate together by introducing our kids to great African American authors, characters, and stories. Let’s make sure we have books on our shelves that open doors and windows.

Check out Penworthy’s selection: https://www.penworthy.com/

Written by Nancy Stetzinger, Penworthy’s Product Manager