Celebrating Black History Month: Educational Activities & Decoration Ideas (2024)

Black History Month is both a celebration of the contributions of African Americans and a somber reflection on the struggles and prejudices of the past. Each year, we put a spotlight on the ongoing journey of Black Americans from slavery to full equality. By dedicating the month of February, we also create a regular reminder of the work still needed to realize the dream of equality for all.

February is also a great time to recognize the historical achievements of African Americans, including those involved in the civil rights movement. From remembering famous firsts to honoring fallen heroes, the month serves as a symbol of inspiration and an opportunity to learn about our shared past.

During Black History Month, organizations throughout society will create initiatives to pay their respects and learn from history. Schools will often decorate with wall decals of famous African American faces and provide hands-on lessons to curious young minds. Gathering places like restaurants, bars, and retail shops will often find relevant Black History themes for activities and wall decorations. Cardboard Cutout Standees is proud to join our nation in remembrance and celebration!

To celebrate Black History Month, Cardboard Cutout Standees will be running a Save 10%, Give 10% promotion throughout the month of February to benefit the Page Education Foundation.

From the Page Education Foundation‘s website: “The Foundation’s goal is to encourage, motivate, and assist Minnesota’s students of color in the pursuit of post-secondary education, and, in the process, change the future. The Foundation achieves that goal by doing two things. First, by providing financial assistance to students pursuing post-secondary education. Second, and most important, by requiring its Page Scholars to work with young children, kindergarten through eighth grade, specifically in the area of education.”

From February 1-February 29, use the code BHM10 at checkout to save 10% on your order, and we will donate an additional 10% of your order to the Page Education Foundation. Last year, the promotion saw great success in raising $932.52 for the Page Education Foundation, beating 2022’s donation of $674.70 by nearly $300. We need your help to make this year’s donation the highest one yet!

Origin Story of Black History Month

In 1926, Historian Carter G. Woodson established “Negro History Week” as the second week of February. The period was chosen because it contained the birthdays of both Frederick Douglass and former U.S. President Abraham Lincoln. More than forty years later, Black History Month was proposed by students and educators attending Kent State University. Today, the month is observed throughout the United States, as well as Canada, Ireland, and the United Kingdom.

Black History 2024 Theme: African Americans and the Arts

Dr. Woodson also created the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH), which is dedicated to the study of Black history year around. According to the organization, the theme for the 2024 Black History Month is “African Americans and the Arts.” This subject captures the influence of African, Caribbean, and the Black American lived experiences across many forms of cultural expression.

Five Creative and Informative Ideas for Black History Month

Invite Speakers Or Create Displays About Interesting Black History Stories

While Martin Luther King, Jr certainly deserves his due honors, U.S. history is full of interesting stories and first black achievers. From elementary schools to corporations, every career and industry should be able to find great examples of historical achievement by Black people. Why not highlight those accomplishments with public speakers or eye-catching standing displays?

Dry cleaning businesses could talk about Sarah Boone, who received a patent for improving the ironing board in 1892. Delivery and trucking industries can highlight Garrett Morgan who invented the three-light traffic signal. Restaurants and food production companies should thank Frederick McKinley Jones, who created refrigerated trucks in 1940.

No matter what you do for a living, there are some interesting stories that you can share with your students, clients, or employees.

Organize a Book Club

Creating a book club dedicated to literature by Black authors can be a great way to celebrate Black History Month. Participants can engage with and explore Black history, culture, and current issues by focusing on works that span both fiction and non-fiction. This initiative offers an opportunity for deep discussions and insights, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation of the contributions of Black writers to literature and society. Selecting a range of books can cater to varied interests, ensuring every member finds something that resonates with them personally and intellectually. Consider a diverse selection of books of different experiences, such as Black women, Black disabled persons, Black teachers, or Black scientists.

Host a Film Series

A film series is an engaging and fun way to dive into Black history and achievements. Selecting a range of films and documentaries that cover pivotal moments, influential figures, and cultural contributions can offer attendees a visual and emotional understanding of Black experiences. Each screening could be followed by a guided discussion, providing a platform for reflection, debate, and deeper understanding. A guided discussion can enrich the viewing experience and encourage community engagement and education on important issues highlighted in the films.

Create Discussion Panels Relevant To Your Organization Mission

February presents us with an opportunity to discuss issues that are important to the black family, racial justice, and the entire African Diaspora. However, it is important to select issues that are meaningful to the actual mission of your organization.

For example, a panel discussion about former U.S. President Barack Obama or the National Museum of African American History and Culture might sound like a great idea. But, if you run a health care center, it would probably be more interesting to invite some guest speakers to talk about the health challenges facing Black women. At the same time, companies working to increase a market share may love discussions about sales or promotions to African American customers.

By making the topic of discussion relevant to the actual work you do, you make the information important to the everyday lives of the audience.

Art Exhibitions

Hosting art exhibitions featuring works by Black artists, from historical figures to contemporary talents, provides a powerful medium to celebrate and acknowledge their contributions to the cultural landscape. This activity highlights the diverse artistic expressions within the Black community and educates and inspires attendees by showcasing the rich history and evolving narrative of Black artistry. Through these exhibitions, communities can engage with the stories, emotions, and perspectives these artworks embody, fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding of Black culture and experiences.

Support Black Businesses

This idea can be both simple and fun. If your company has regular lunch meetings that are catered, why not look around for an African American caterer or restaurant to support? Searching for gifts for upcoming birthdays? Why not shop online from a few Black-owned retail stores? Order from a variety of local Black businesses and create gift bags for your employees or clients.

No matter what you need, you are likely to find an entrepreneur that can provide you with a unique experience and interesting product or service. At the same time, you can also support small businesses, which is great for our economy. February is a wonderful month to get outside your comfort zone and shop somewhere new!

Music Appreciation Events

Celebrate Black History Month by organizing music appreciation events that explore the influence of Black musicians across various genres. Your selection of music can include jazz, blues, hip-hop, rock, R&B, and more, highlighting the profound impact Black artists have had on music history and culture. Through live performances, listening sessions, and discussions, attendees can gain a deeper understanding of Black musicians’ contributions and diverse talents, enriching their appreciation for the music and its historical context.

Visit or Donate Funds To Local Black Institutions

Let’s face it, most of us are already busy and a little stressed out. If you want to honor Black History Month but don’t have the time to organize an event, why not schedule a group visit to a museum or art exhibit around Black artists and culture? Many institutions in your community have already planned special occasions. Feel free to research and attend a few of these rather than doing something unique.

These institutions also need money to honor the month, so they could also use your donations. Nonprofits and volunteer groups throughout the country are working hard to realize the dream of freedom and equality for all. February is a good time to honor that dedication with a donation.

Cultural Food Fairs and Potlucks

A cultural food fair offers a vibrant platform to celebrate and explore the diversity of Black culinary traditions, showcasing dishes from across the African diaspora. You can invite attendees to taste and learn about the rich flavors, ingredients, and cooking techniques central to Black culture. By highlighting the variety and history behind each dish, a cultural food fair can foster a greater appreciation and understanding of Black heritage, bringing people together through the universal language of food.

Fun and Games Including Classroom Black History Ideas

Here are a few ways to enjoy celebrating Black History Month with kids or the young at heart!

• Create a Black History Month trivia event and hand out prizes from Black-Owned businesses
• Research Black History Month facts
• Complete a timeline of important Black history events
• Recreate famous works of art by Black artists
• School display for highlighting Black leaders

No matter what you decide to do for Black History Month, Cardboard Cutout Standees is your source for decorations like wall decals and standing cardboard images. Contact us today for a free estimate!