top of page

Black History Month: Honor & Grow

Writer's picture: Roxy GreningerRoxy Greninger

Have you ever wondered why Black History Month happens in February? Nearly a century ago, "Negro History Week" was introduced by historian Carter G. Woodson to bring attention to Black contributions being left out of history books. He picked the month Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass were born to honor them for playing essential roles in shaping Black history. Fifty years later, the week was expanded to a month, encouraging more reflection on Black achievements, resilience, and impact.


Want to learn more?


A paper mache globe encompassed by purple people cutouts.

28 Days of Learning & Reflection


I’ve curated a lineup of books, TED Talks, and podcasts to make learning about Black history meaningful. Whether you're looking to grow personally or contribute to a more inclusive workplace, you have the freedom to explore at your own pace. There’s no set order; pick what interests you and dive in. Each resource offers a fresh perspective and a powerful story to connect with.


Podcasts


A Code Switch Playlist For Black History Month. Stories on everything from sports activism to the Black Panther Party to one woman's fight for respect that went all the way to the Supreme Court.


Black on the Bluff. Educational collegiate talk show centered on the Black experience at the University of Portland, Oregon.


Historically Black. The Historically Black podcast explores personal artifacts and their stories, turning everyday objects into a "people's museum" of Black history through interviews, archival sound, and music.


Witness History: Black History. The BBC's podcast features firsthand interviews with individuals who experienced key moments in Black and Civil Rights history, filling gaps left by traditional school curricula.


The Nod. The Nod highlights untold stories of Black life, celebrating the genius, innovation, and resilience of Black culture through unique and unexpected narratives.


Ted Talks


Talks to celebrate Black History Month. Insightful talks that offer fresh, thoughtful perspectives on Black identity.


Books (Fiction & Non-Fiction)


  1. Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston (Fiction)

    A profound novel that explores the life of Janie Crawford, an African American woman in the early 20th century, as she searches for her own identity and independence


  2. Beloved by Toni Morrison (Fiction)

    A haunting novel that tells the story of a runaway slave haunted by the ghost of her deceased daughter, exploring themes of trauma, memory, and the legacy of slavery.


  3. The Color Purple by Alice Walker (Fiction)

    The novel follows the life of Celie, an African American woman in the early 20th-century South, as she overcomes abuse and finds her voice.


  4. Go Tell It on the Mountain by James Baldwin (Fiction)

    A semi-autobiographical novel that examines the role of the Christian Church in the lives of African Americans, both as a source of repression and moral hypocrisy and as a source of inspiration and community.


  5. Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison (Fiction)

    A novel that addresses many of the social and intellectual issues facing African Americans early in the twentieth century, including Black nationalism, the relationship between Black identity and Marxism, and the reformist racial policies of Booker T. Washington, as well as issues of individuality and personal identity.


  6. The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson (Non-Fiction)

    A historical study that chronicles the mass migration of African Americans from the South to the North and West from 1915 to 1970, highlighting personal stories and broader societal impacts.


  7. Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates (Non-Fiction)

    Written as a letter to his teenage son, Coates reflects on the realities of being Black in America, discussing history, identity, and systemic racism.


  8. Stamped from the Beginning by Ibram X. Kendi (Non-Fiction)

    A comprehensive history of racist ideas in America, examining how they were developed and perpetuated over time.


  9. The Souls of Black Folk by W.E.B. Du Bois (Non-Fiction)

    A seminal work in the history of sociology and a cornerstone of African-American literature, Du Bois introduces and addresses the concept of "double consciousness," exploring the internal conflict experienced by subordinated groups in an oppressive society.


  10. The Fire Next Time by James Baldwin (Non-Fiction) - Comprising two essays, this book examines the central role of race in American history and Baldwin's personal experiences with the racial tensions of the civil rights movement.


Why Continuous Learning Matters


Black history isn't just about the past; it shapes the world we live in today. Understanding it helps us build real empathy, recognize systemic patterns, and challenge outdated ideas about leadership, resilience, and change. It helps us build real empathy, recognize systemic patterns, and challenge outdated ideas about leadership, resilience, and change. Engaging with these resources isn’t just about looking back; it’s about shaping how you think, collaborate, and make an impact moving forward.


Supplemental Learning and Development


Looking to enhance learning and development in your organization? I offer consulting to create more informed, inclusive, and empowered teams. Through tailored learning and development content, engaging team workshops, culture and engagement strategies, or leadership development programs, I can help turn learning into action.



4 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


Let's Connect

Thank you for your message!

bottom of page