As we work to promote equity, diversity, and inclusion at the Food Bank, it is imperative to recognize and celebrate the diverse backgrounds and identities of our staff, partners, and those we serve. Celebrations such as Black History Month allow us the opportunity to acknowledge the cultural identities of individuals within our organization and beyond. This month, we invite you to further your own knowledge by exploring some of the resources shared below. Deepening our understandings of cultures beyond our own is a way to promote cross-cultural understanding, thus promoting the inclusion and belonging of all identities represented at the Food Bank.
History and Purpose of Black History Month:
Founded by Carter G. Woodson in 1926, what we now know as Black History Month was initially observed as “Negro History Week” during the second week of February to honor the lives of Fredrick Douglas and Abraham Lincoln. In addition, Woodson wanted to create a time specifically to recognize important figures and events within the African American community, and it has since evolved into so much more. Recognized internationally in countries such as Canada, the United Kingdom, and Ireland, Black History Month provides the opportunity to showcase the vast contributions to society made by Black people. It allows for celebration of the beauty of Black life, and validates the fact that Black history is American history and world history. Furthermore, February is a time to acknowledge African Americans’ foundational role in the building of this nation, and the strength, resilience, and importance of communities within the Black diaspora.
Black History Month at the Food Bank
Black History Month is a time to uplift the beauty, richness, and diversity of African American identity and culture within our organization, community, and world. It is a time to honor the achievements of those who blazed the trail for so many others, including our very own, newly retired Earline Middleton whose 32-year legacy at the Food Bank inspires us all. It is a time to acknowledge the intersectional identities that exist within the Black community, including members of our staff who have served in our nation’s armed forces, staff who attended HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) within our service area and beyond, staff who represent the Queer community, staff from across our nation with a vast array of skills and experiences, managers, directors, frontline staff in our warehouses and on the road, senior leaders, fundraisers, coordinators, board members, volunteers, leaders— folks who are all deeply committed to achieving the mission of this organization.
Resources
As we observe this month, please take some time to review the resources shared below to learn and explore more.
National Museum of African American History and Culture-Virtual Events
Association for the Study of African American Life and History-Black History Month Themes
Celebrate Black History Month with PBS
GLAAD Celebrates Black History Month Honoring LGBT Black Americans
NPR-The Story Behind Black History Month
Black History Month in the Triangle
25+ Important Places to Visit and Learn About Black History in North Carolina
