This February, we’re thinking about the evolution of Black History Month and the role it plays in our current cultural and political moment. Originally the second week in February and expanded into a month during the Civil Rights Movement, Black History Month has served to give a platform to black leaders, events, and contributions that have been suppressed in the annals of history. Now, when many leaders in government are denying, downplaying, and ignoring evidence of racial inequity, it’s more important than ever to share these narratives, to engage in self-reflection, and to listen to the experiences and wisdom of those around us. With Minnesota as the second-worst state in the nation for racial equality, there is much work to be done.
Of course, no single month could possibly encompass all of black history, nor could any small tribute do justice to the importance of these leaders, events, and practices. But it’s that continued search for justice that continues to motivate us on the path of peacebuilding, and that gives us the opportunity to combine our knowledge and resources in the pursuit of racial equity.
At Peacebuilding, we’re embracing Black History Month as an opportunity to learn about influential black leaders and pivotal historical events that impact racial equity. We understand that no one person has the solution to the urgent problems of racial disparity and discrimination, and we are constantly seeking opportunities to learn from history and leaders in our current communities. In our efforts to learn, we will be featuring information on black leaders and events every day in February on Facebook. We welcome you to join the conversation and share what you know, or to follow along and learn something new. And we invite you to join us at our monthly Coming to the Table meeting, a circle-process conversation that provides relationship engagement, leadership, resources, and a supportive environment to dismantle racism that is rooted in the United States’ history of slavery. There is much work to be done, but by learning, listening, and engaging, we can take Minnesota beyond the legacy of slavery and transform it to the peacebuilding power state for all.
Of course, no single month could possibly encompass all of black history, nor could any small tribute do justice to the importance of these leaders, events, and practices. But it’s that continued search for justice that continues to motivate us on the path of peacebuilding, and that gives us the opportunity to combine our knowledge and resources in the pursuit of racial equity.
At Peacebuilding, we’re embracing Black History Month as an opportunity to learn about influential black leaders and pivotal historical events that impact racial equity. We understand that no one person has the solution to the urgent problems of racial disparity and discrimination, and we are constantly seeking opportunities to learn from history and leaders in our current communities. In our efforts to learn, we will be featuring information on black leaders and events every day in February on Facebook. We welcome you to join the conversation and share what you know, or to follow along and learn something new. And we invite you to join us at our monthly Coming to the Table meeting, a circle-process conversation that provides relationship engagement, leadership, resources, and a supportive environment to dismantle racism that is rooted in the United States’ history of slavery. There is much work to be done, but by learning, listening, and engaging, we can take Minnesota beyond the legacy of slavery and transform it to the peacebuilding power state for all.
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