Black History Month
Honor and celebrate Black history, culture, achievements, and contributions. A month dedicated to recognizing the vital role of Black Americans in shaping our nation and world.
What Is Black History Month?
Black History Month, celebrated every February, is an annual observance honoring the achievements, contributions, and struggles of Black Americans throughout history. What began in 1926 as "Negro History Week," created by historian Carter G. Woodson, has grown into a month-long celebration recognized across the United States and Canada.
The month serves multiple purposes: educating people about Black history often omitted from mainstream narratives, celebrating Black culture and excellence, honoring civil rights leaders and pioneers, and reflecting on ongoing efforts toward equality and justice. It's a time to recognize that Black history is American history—inseparable, essential, and worthy of year-round acknowledgment.
Why Celebrate?
Education and Awareness
Many crucial stories and contributions have been historically marginalized or ignored. Black History Month provides dedicated time to learn, share knowledge, and fill gaps in our understanding.
Honor Resilience and Achievement
Despite centuries of oppression and barriers, Black Americans have made extraordinary contributions to every field—arts, science, politics, sports, business, and beyond.
Promote Equity and Justice
Celebrating Black History Month means confronting historical injustices, recognizing ongoing inequalities, and committing to building a more equitable future for everyone.
Strengthen Community and Culture
For Black communities, it's a time of cultural pride and connection. For all communities, it's an opportunity to appreciate the richness Black culture brings to society.
Ways to Celebrate
Create an Appreciation Card
Gather messages honoring Black colleagues, mentors, or community leaders. Celebrate their contributions, share what you've learned from them, and express gratitude for their impact.
Educational Sharing
Create a group card where team members share facts, quotes, or stories about Black history figures they admire. Turn it into a learning experience for everyone.
Workplace Celebration
Organize events, speaker series, or discussions about Black history and culture. Send cards to Black employees expressing appreciation and solidarity.
Support Black-Owned Businesses
Create a card compiling local Black-owned businesses to support. Share resources and encourage your community to invest in Black entrepreneurship.
Book Club or Film Series
Host a month-long exploration of Black literature, films, or documentaries. Send a group card where participants share reflections and learnings.
Community Service
Volunteer with organizations supporting Black communities. Document your team's efforts in a card celebrating collective action and commitment to equity.
Black History Month Message Ideas
"Your presence, perspective, and contributions make our team stronger. Thank you for everything you bring—not just this month, but every day. You're valued and appreciated."
"Thank you for your guidance, wisdom, and the example you set. Your leadership has shaped my path and perspective in profound ways. I'm grateful to learn from you."
"This Black History Month, let's commit to learning, listening, and lifting up voices. History isn't just something we study—it's something we create together, every day."
"Thank you for teaching the full story—the triumphs, struggles, and contributions that make up our shared history. You're shaping minds and building a more informed, equitable future."
"Your work strengthens our community and honors the legacy of those who fought for justice before us. Thank you for your dedication, courage, and unwavering commitment."
"Learn the stories. Ask the questions. Honor the past while building a better future. You have the power to continue the work of progress and justice."
"Let's use this month to share stories, celebrate our heritage, and pass down the legacy of strength, resilience, and excellence that defines our community."
"Black history is American history. This month, let's celebrate the contributions, honor the struggles, and commit to building a future where everyone's story is told and valued."
Tips for Celebrating Black History Month
Listen and Learn
Center Black voices and perspectives. Read books by Black authors, watch films by Black creators, and listen to the experiences of Black colleagues and friends.
Be Authentic and Respectful
Avoid performative gestures or tokenism. Genuine engagement, ongoing commitment to equity, and sincere appreciation matter far more than symbolic actions.
Go Beyond February
While February is dedicated to celebration, the commitment to learning, equity, and justice should be year-round. Use this month as a starting point, not an endpoint.
Take Action
Learning is important, but so is action. Support Black-owned businesses, advocate for equitable policies, and use your voice and resources to create meaningful change.
Common Questions
Why is Black History Month in February?
February was chosen because it coincides with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln (Feb 12) and Frederick Douglass (Feb 14), both significant figures in Black American history. Carter G. Woodson established it in 1926.
Can non-Black people celebrate Black History Month?
Yes—everyone should engage with Black history. The key is to listen, learn, and take meaningful action rather than centering your own experience. It's about honoring and amplifying Black voices.
How can workplaces celebrate appropriately?
Host educational events, amplify Black employees' voices, support Black-owned vendors, review equity policies, and create space for honest dialogue. Ensure efforts are genuine and ongoing, not performative.
Should Black history only be taught in February?
No—Black history should be integrated into education and workplace culture year-round. February is a dedicated focus, but the learning and celebration shouldn't stop when March begins.
How do I send a respectful Black History Month card?
Be genuine, avoid stereotypes, focus on specific appreciation or learning, and don't burden Black recipients with educating you. If in doubt, express solidarity and commitment to ongoing learning and equity.
Other February Occasions
Ready to Honor Black History Month?
Celebrate contributions, share appreciation, and build community. Create a free group eCard in 30 seconds.
Create Black History Month eCard