Each year we are granted the opportunity to celebrate Black History Month! This month serves as an annual time to honor the contributions and resilience of Black communities while acknowledging the ongoing challenges that are faced. In today’s political situation, while we celebrate new additions of Black history, including Juneteenth being recognized as a national holiday, debates surrounding race, education, and equity remain deeply divisive. Black History Month takes on added significance—not just for understanding history but also for fostering mental health awareness in Black communities.
Why Do We Celebrate Black History Month?
As Black identity increased in the 1960s due to the Civil Rights Movement, it became impermanent to celebrate the history of Black individuals. On February 10th, 1976, President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month. Black History Month was an extension of “Negro History Week”. His reasoning for recognizing Black History Month was to bring acknowledgement to the sufferings (systemic equality, racism, police brutality, and colorism) and accomplishments of the Black leaders and activists. Black history is integral to understanding the progress and struggles of the United States. Black History Month is an opportunity to honor the past experiences of Black individuals, the future ahead for the Black community, and to preserve Black culture.
The Political Context and Mental Health
The current political environment has seen increased debates about racial equality, education policies, and systemic reform. Efforts to limit the teaching of African American history and racial issues in schools has become a catalyst to national conversations about identity and belonging. For many, these debates are not just political—they’re personal, often creating feelings of invalidation, suppression, and erasure. This emphasizes the importance of Black History Month as a time to reaffirm the richness of Black history, culture, and contributions. It’s also an opportunity to address how political issues impact mental health within Black communities.
The Mental Health Impact of Political Debates of the Black Community
- Racial Trauma and Systemic Stress
Living in a society that continues to maintain systemic racism can take a toll on mental health. The ongoing exposure to racial injustice—whether through personal experience, news media, or political rhetoric—can lead to symptoms of racial trauma, including anxiety, depression, and feelings of helplessness.
2. The Role of Erasure in Mental Health
Black History is American History! There are current debates on censoring or limiting how Black history is taught in schools. In recent years, efforts to suppress discussions of race and history in education have raised critical concerns about erasure. These attempts risk invalidating the experiences of Black individuals and communities while perpetuating systems of inequality. Erasing Black History is erasing Black identity, achievements, activities, and resilience. The suppression or distortion of Black history in educational systems can perpetuate feelings of invisibility and disenfranchisement, especially among youth. This erasure undermines the sense of identity and pride that comes from understanding one’s cultural heritage. With the erasure of Black history, many Black individuals will lack a sense of belonging that can contribute to social anxiety, low self-esteem, and depression. Learning about the achievements and struggles of Black historical figures can inspire resilience and a sense of agency. Stories of perseverance serve as reminders of collective strength.
- Community Strength Amid Adversity
Despite these challenges, Black communities have long demonstrated resilience, relying on cultural traditions, community networks, and activism to promote well-being. These strengths are critical to maintaining mental health in the face of adversity.
How Black History Month Can Support Mental Health
- Creating Safe Spaces for Reflection
Events and discussions during Black History Month provide opportunities to explore and celebrate Black identity. These spaces foster connection and understanding, reducing feelings of isolation.
- Promoting Culturally Responsive Care
Highlighting the need for mental health professionals who understand the unique challenges faced by Black individuals is important. Black History Month can serve as a platform to advocate for more accessible and culturally sensitive mental health services.
- Empowering Through Education
Learning about the achievements and struggles of Black historical figures can inspire resilience and a sense of agency. Stories of perseverance, innovation, and activism serve as reminders of collective strength.
Honoring Black History Month
Black History Month is more than a time for reflection—it’s an opportunity to honor the past, engage in meaningful action, and hope for a better future for Black voices and communities. Here’s how we can meaningfully engage this February and beyond:
1. Learn about the history
Understanding history is a critical first step toward maintaining a bright future. Taking some time to dive deep into the stories and achievements of Black individuals throughout history and their significant roles in shaping America. Black history includes learning about and recognizing everyday heroes, artists, scientists, educators, and countless others whose contributions deserve recognition. Reading books by Black authors, such as James Baldwin, Toni Morrison, or contemporary writers like Ta-Nehisi Coates can widen your knowledge on Black authors. You can also support and attend educational programs, exhibitions, and talks focused on Black history. Lastly, share what you learn with your family and friends to spread your knowledge about Black voices and narratives.
2. Advocate for Racial Justice
Advocating for justice means addressing both individual and systemic inequities. Black History Month is a time to acknowledge the persistence of systemic racism and to take vital steps toward diminishing it. Issues such as disparities in education, criminal justice reform, housing inequities, and healthcare access require sustained attention and action. You can advocate for racial justice by researching and supporting local organizations that work towards racial equity, such as the Equal Justice Initiative or Black Lives Matter. Hold institutions accountable by advocating for policies that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. If you would like to take your advocacy to your community, engage through volunteerism or initiatives aimed at uplifting Black voices and communities.
3. Celebrate Black Culture and Innovation
Black culture has profoundly influenced art, music, fashion, science, and countless other fields. Celebrating Black culture honors its richness and creativity while also affirming the value and significance of Black identities. Support and explore Black-owned businesses and creators in your local community. If you are interested in a more social scene, attend cultural events such as film screenings, art exhibits, or performances that highlight Black talent. Lastly, share and uplift Black stories, whether in literature, film, or media.
4. Amplify Black Futures
Honoring Black history also means investing in Black futures. Black History Month is a time to reflect on the opportunities we can create for future generations by addressing systemic barriers and fostering environments where Black individuals can thrive. Take some time to mentor and support Black youth by contributing to programs that focus on education and career development.
5. Reflect on This Moment in History
We are living through a pivotal time in history, one marked by renewed conversations about race and identity that is continuously dividing America apart. Black History Month is an opportunity to reflect on what this month means for Black voices and futures. To reflect on this current political climate, you can engage in meaningful dialogue about race and history with family, friends, and colleagues. As social media continues to take the world by storm, use your platform—no matter how small—to advocate for and amplify Black voices. You can also commit to long-term change by integrating racial equity into your daily life and decisions.
Erasing Black history denies the full complexity of our shared past. It creates an incomplete narrative that diminishes the significance of those who fought for freedom, justice, and equality. By recognizing Black history, we acknowledge the essential role Black communities have played in shaping the world we live in today. Black History Month reminds us of the resilience, brilliance, and contributions of Black individuals throughout history. It also challenges us to act in the present to ensure a more equitable and safe future. By learning, advocating, celebrating, and reflecting, we can honor Black history in a way that continues to empower Black voices and communities—not just in February, but every day throughout the year. Let this month inspire us to build a world where Black futures are bright, Black voices are heard, and Black lives are valued. As we honor Black History Month, let us remember that understanding history and addressing mental health are interconnected. Healing begins with acknowledgment, and progress is achieved through collective action. As the current political situation continues to divide us, Black History Month continues to serve as a beacon of hope.