February is Black History Month. Our nation, AFGE, and the labor movement have been led by the important work, passion, intelligence, and advocacy of Black leaders and activists. Our union is using this month to honor that contribution and continue to stand in solidarity with our Black union family.
Here are 6 things you can do to celebrate Black History Month:
1. Recognize Black leaders and activists in your local
Locals should find ways to recognize Black leaders and activists in their shops through virtual events, lunch & learns, and other communications platforms. Read about some of AFGE's Black leaders here, here, and here.
2. Join AFGE’s Black History Month events
This year, WFP will be hosting its annual Civil Rights Luncheon at the 2022 AFGE Legislative Conference, which has been rescheduled for March. In conjunction with AFGE B.L.A.C.K., WFP also will be hosting three virtual Black History Month events later this month. Follow the links to register.
Feb. 23 from 7-9pm: History of the Black Labor Movement
Feb. 24 from 7-9pm: Race and Duty: A Conversation with Black AFGE Law Enforcement
Feb. 28 from 7-9pm: AFGE Black Member Panel
3. Join ASALH’s virtual Black History Month festival
The founder of Black History Month – the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, established in 1915 by Dr. Carter G. Woodson – is hosting a month-long virtual festival that features all kinds of presentations and discussions. This year’s theme is Black Health and Wellness, which acknowledges the legacy of Black scholars, medical practitioners, and health care professions both in Western medicine and African Diaspora.
Join the conversation here.
4. Explore Black history with the National Museum of African American History & Culture
Join the National Museum of African American History & Culture in celebrating Black History Month through the lens of health and wellness. The museum’s special webpage highlights Black pioneers’ trailblazing contributions to medicine, addresses health disparities facing our communities, and encourages healing through education.
5. Join and/or make a donation to an organization that promotes equality and justice
The fate of the civil rights movement and the labor movement is intertwined since we share the struggle of equal pay and equal rights. Join organizations like the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU) and the A. Philip Randolph Institute (APRI) to help promote equality and justice.
There’s also the National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC) that focuses on empowerment of Black LGBTQ folks. The National Black Worker Center (NBWC) is a national network of Black worker centers that works to empower Black workers and end discrimination in the workplace.
Besides joining and donating to a civil rights organization, joining a union is a great way to fight social and economic inequality. If you haven’t joined AFGE, join us now and help shape our own future.
6. Support Black-owned businesses
One of the ways to show support for our Black siblings is to support Black businesses, especially in our local community. Check out Black Exchange and Support Black Owned and find a Black-owned business near you.
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