Four Ways to Celebrate Black History Month

Black history Month is the shortest month of the year, but it doesn’t have to be the dullest. Instead of watching the same old documentaries and dusting off the “I Have a Dream” speech, here are some fun and interactive ways to celebrate black culture and contribution in American society.

Watch a Feel-Good Black Film

Black film in America has documented a lot of traumatic and disparaging realities of our past. While it is still valuable to remember and educate ourselves of our history, it is also important to celebrate and embrace black joy and a variety of black narratives. Parents use your discretion, but here are potential movies you can add to your weekend agenda.

1. Black Panther (2018) – Hulu, Disney +, Sling TV
2. Princess and the Frog (2009) – Disney +
3. Soul (2020) – Disney +, Apple TV
4. Canvas (2020) – Netflix
5. The Photograph (2020) – Hulu, HBO Max
6. Sister Act (1992) – Disney +, Amazon Prime
7. Johnson Family Vacation (2004) – Peacock, Hulu, Amazon Prime

Attend an Event Honoring Black History

Texas is rich with black culture and ripe with events, celebrations, and activities that honor Texan history. To name a few events you can go to this month, there is the …

1. Bill Pickett Invitation Rodeo
   1. This rodeo series honors Black cowboys and cowgirls. It’s named after black cowboy Bill Pickett who is the inventor of rodeo steer wrestling, also known as bulldogging.
   2. Where: Cowtown Coliseum, 121 E. Exchange Avenue, Fort Worth
   3. When: February 19, at 1:30pm and 7:30pm.
2. African American Read-In Hosted by Irving Public Library
   1. This annual event showcases African-American children’s literature. Storyteller Toni Simmons is featured with her presentation of interactive folktales, songs, rhythms and chants.
   2. Where: 801 W. Irving Blvd, Irving, TX 75060
   3. When: 2:00 – 3:00 pm February 20, 2022
3. African American Museum of Dallas
   1. Located at Fair Park, the African American museum houses one of the largest collection of African American folk art collections in the U.S. Be sure to visit this month during three special exhibits.
   2. Where: 3536 Grand Ave, Dallas, TX 75210
   3. When: Tuesday – Saturday

Attend a Black Church

Churches have always been an integral part of African American history. While we know famous historical pastors like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., there are present day African American-led spiritual leaders making a lasting impact on child welfare in our community.

1. Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship
   • Sunday Service – 10:00 am
2. Concord Baptist church
   • Sunday Service – 10:00 am
3. Friendship West Baptist Church
   • Sunday Services – 10 am & 12 pm

Support Black-Owned Businesses and Restaurants

Diversifying your environment doesn’t have to be limited to the occasional event. You can diversify the places you shop, eat, and hang out. Support Black Owned is a good resource to start. Alternatively, search eatokra.com to treat yourself to some great food at black owned restaurants.

A few other suggestions include …

1. Caribbean Cabana
   • With authentic cuisine from Trinidad and Tobago, you’ll be envisioning yourself on an island in no time.
   • Where: 920 S Harwood St, Dallas, TX 75201 (inside the Dallas Farmer’s Market Food court).
2. JourneyFit Gym
   • Don’t give up on your New Year’s goal just yet, this gym is focused on personalized training to yield long-term lifestyle changes.
   • Where: 3321 E Renner Rd, Richardson, TX 75082
3. Black Coffee
   • Rated as one of the “Best of Fort Worth in 2020,” Black Coffee serves up artisan coffee roasts and good vibes.
   • Where: 1417 Vaughn Blvd, Fort Worth, TX 76105

As you commemorate Black History Month, remember this isn’t the only time to celebrate the diversity and culture of our communities. Try any of these suggestions all year-round!