Black History Month in the Workplace: Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future

It’s February – Black History Month! Black History Month is an important time to honor the achievements, contributions, and history of Black individuals. Regardless of politics, this is a time to recognize and celebrate the impact Black leaders, innovators, and communities have had on our society.

Understanding Black History Month: Its Origins and Purpose

Black History Month (BHM) is an annual celebration of the achievements, contributions, and history of Black individuals in the United States and beyond. It was officially recognized in 1976 but has roots dating back to 1926, when historian Carter G. Woodson launched Negro History Week. Woodson, often called the “Father of Black History,” saw the need to highlight the profound impact of Black Americans on the nation's history—an impact frequently overlooked in mainstream education.

Negro History Week was strategically placed in February to align with the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln, two figures deeply connected to Black liberation. Over time, the week-long observance expanded into Black History Month, formally recognized by President Gerald Ford during the U.S. Bicentennial. Ford encouraged Americans to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor.” Today, Black History Month is observed across the U.S., Canada, and the U.K., with each year highlighting different themes of resilience, innovation, and social justice.

How Communities Can Celebrate Black History Month

Beyond the workplace, Black History Month is a time for communities to come together in education, reflection, and celebration. Here are some impactful ways to honor the month:

• Support Black-Owned Businesses – Encourage patronizing Black-owned restaurants, bookstores, and other enterprises. To find Black-owned businesses in your community, explore directories such as We Buy Black, Official Black Wall Street, and EatOkra.

• Engage in Educational Events – Attend lectures, film screenings, and panel discussions featuring Black historians, activists, and artists. Explore online resources such as the National Museum of African American History and Culture, BlackPast, and the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture.

• Explore Literature and Art – Read books by Black authors such as The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett, Beloved by Toni Morrison, and Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates. Discover Black artists through platforms like Black Art in America and Saatchi Art’s Black Artists Collection.

• Volunteer and Give Back – Support organizations dedicated to racial equity through donations or volunteer efforts. Consider supporting NAACP Legal Defense Fund, The Loveland Foundation, and United Negro College Fund.

• Celebrate Through Music and Culture – Attend cultural festivals, concerts, or heritage celebrations. Consider events like the Essence Festival of Culture or the Afropunk Festival.

Honoring Black History Month in the Workplace

Incorporating Black History Month into workplace culture fosters inclusivity, respect, and education. Here are ways to celebrate:

1. Highlight Black Leaders and Innovators – Share spotlights on Black trailblazers in your industry and invite Black speakers to share their insights.

2. Host Learning and Dialogue Sessions – Organize panels, book clubs, and screenings of documentaries featuring Black history and contributions.

3. Support Black Businesses and Vendors – Offer catered lunches from Black-owned restaurants and partner with Black-owned vendors.

4. Engage in Philanthropy and Volunteering – Create company-wide initiatives to support Black-led nonprofits and match employee donations.

5. Provide Professional Development for Black Employees – Support mentorship programs, career coaching, and leadership development initiatives.

What If Your Company Pushes Back on DEI Initiatives?

If your company is hesitant to engage in DEI or Black History Month programming, you can still find meaningful ways to celebrate and promote awareness:

• Educate Yourself and Others – Share books, documentaries, and articles about Black history and contributions in your industry.

• Host Informal Discussions – Organize voluntary lunch-and-learn sessions on Black leaders, historical events, or industry pioneers.

• Support Black-Owned Businesses and Charities – Arrange a company-wide initiative to support Black-owned businesses or encourage donations to organizations advancing racial equity.

• Amplify Black Voices – Use LinkedIn or internal platforms to highlight Black achievements in your field.

• Engage with Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) – If your company has a Black ERG, support their initiatives and attend their events.

• Participate in External Events – If internal celebrations are limited, attend Black History Month events, webinars, and cultural programs in your community.

• Encourage Inclusive Leadership – Advocate for leadership training that fosters inclusivity, cultural awareness, and allyship.

• Recognize Black Employees – Use internal communications to highlight the contributions and achievements of Black employees.

• Propose Inclusive Workplace Policies – Recommend updates to hiring practices, DEI training, and professional development opportunities.

• Leverage Internal Platforms – Share inspiring stories, historical facts, and key milestones in Black history through company intranet or discussion channels.

Final Thoughts

Black History Month is more than just a celebration—it’s an opportunity for reflection, education, and action. While recognizing Black history in February is important, true inclusivity requires year-round commitment. Whether through workplace initiatives, community engagement, or personal learning, every effort to acknowledge and uplift Black contributions makes a difference. Let’s use this time to foster conversations, drive meaningful change, and build a more inclusive future together.