Black History Month
Every February, the U.S. honors the contributions and sacrifices of African Americans who have helped shape the nation. Black History Month celebrates the rich cultural heritage, triumphs and adversities that are an indelible part of our country's history.
This year's theme, Black Health and Wellness, pays homage to medical scholars and health care providers. The theme is especially timely as we enter the third year of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has disproportionately affected minority communities and placed unique burdens on Black health care professionals.
Below you will find ways that you can find tangible ways to take action during Black History Month. These resources are just the tip of the iceberg - don’t stop taking the time to listen and participate in these Black History Month activities once February’s over. And don’t limit yourself to just listening—act! Learn what it anti-racism means and what it means to be anti-racist. Become an active participant in the civic fabric of our community, and together we can create a more vibrant and equitable Twin Cities for all!
Volunteerism and Equity: A Bold Conversation
Listen in on this important conversation focused on volunteerism and the role that it plays in the journey toward a more equitable community and tangible actions that people can take. Speakers included Seena Hodges, The Woke Coach; Renay Dossman, President of Neighborhood Development Center (NDC); Adair Mosley, President and CEO of Pillsbury United Communities; and Danielle Grant, President and CEO of AchieveMPLS.
Full Interviews
Renay Dossman, President of Neighborhood Development Center
Seena Hodges, Founder and CEO of The Woke Coach
Adair Mosley, President and CEO of Pillsbury United Communities
Danielle Grant, President and CEO of Achieve MPLS
Dig Deeper
In-Person Volunteer Opportunities.
Share your time and talents outside of your home to help your community or a cause you care about.
At-Home Volunteer Opportunities.
Check out this list of at-home projects that can be done related to social justice.
Purchase Power.
Shop from one or more of the pro bono alumni companies. Support BIPOC-owned small businesses across the country.
Donate.
Donate to an organization helping build and create a more just society.
Education.
Learn about historical and current issues that help contextualize the volunteer experience.
Advocacy.
Raise your voice on the issues that you care about.
TAKE ACTION
Voting is the way to make your voice heard and one way to participate in our democracy. It is critically important that our diverse perspectives are represented, yet voting rights are being restricted. We encourage you to research your representative’s stance and record on voting rights (click here to find your representatives) and to contact them to encourage them to expand voting rights. Additionally, it’s never too early to make sure that you are registered to vote, and encourage your network to do the same. For more resources on voting access and to get involved, visit MN Youth Collective, or the Minnesota ACLU.
