From the middle of January when we begin discussing Martin Luther King, Jr. and the Civil Rights movement through to the end of February, we place special importance on the history of Black history in the United States. Many of us also likely take stock of our own place in the conversation, what we’re contributing, and how we can participate responsibly and respectfully.
As we move into Black History Month, we’ve compiled a few resources on ways you can think about amplifying Black voices and contributions and how we can work to bring Black history into the classroom year-round.
Five Ways to Avoid Whitewashing the Civil Rights Movement
Context is key in many ways, and sometimes in teaching Black history, events can be removed from their context and taught as solitary things. Coshandra Dillard overviews how to bring full and accurate attention to Black history in the classroom.
Dear Teachers: Do’s and Don’ts of Black History Month
Teacher and YouTuber Elaine Johnston gives her top do’s and don’ts for teaching Black history, what to include, and what to avoid.
Making Space for Black History in the Classroom
High School Teacher Anthony Crawford discusses why Black history is important for Black students, yes, but how and why it matters for everyone. He shares the things he teaches to his classes and how he can see his students’ behavior and participation change for the better after encountering new subjects.
Teaching Black History in Culturally Responsive Ways
New Jersey After School Program Director Rann Miller reflects on his time as a student and how instructors can incorporate Black history year-round and across disciplines.
How Can White Teachers Teach Black History? Six Things You Need to Know
This Education Week article acknowledges that about 80% of K-12 teachers in America are white and gives pointers on ways white teachers can responsibly carry on the Black history conversation.
Black History Month Teaching: Miseducation or Empowerment?
How do you frame the conversation around Black history? Find one teacher’s input on how to keep positives and contributions in the narrative.
Black History is American History. We Should Teach it That Way
Sachel Harris, Communications Manager at The New Teacher Project, illuminates what we risk when we only teach Black history as a “footnote to American history” and what we gain when we commit to telling a full story.