Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility: Black History Month

African American: This term specifically refers to people in the United States who are of African descent.

Black: This is a broader term that can refer to people of African descent anywhere in the world, not just the United States

Some individuals may have a personal preference on which term they use. It's always best to ask, if you're unsure.

Some individuals may use a variation of African American if they know their family's origin. Author, Tomi Adeyemi refers to herself as Nigerian-American to recognize that both of her parents are from Nigeria.

Outdated Terminology

People of Color: This term was originally a synonym of "Black" but the meaning expanded to incorporate other non-white groups like Latinos, Asians, and Native Americans.

Colored: This term is no longer used due to its association with the segregation era in the United States when racial discrimination was widespread.

Negro: This term was commonly used in the past but now it's considered outdated and potentially offensive due to its history of marginalizing black people.

Negro History Week began after Reconstruction as a way to campaign for the importance of Black History. Carter G. Woodson, a scholar and historian, is attributed as one of the founders and today is known as "the father of Black History."

The first variation of Negro History Week was hosted by the Omega Psi Fraternity in 1924 and the event was named, Negro History and Literature Week. 

Determined to continue to advocate for Black Americans, Woodson introduced the first Negro History Week in February 1926 to correlate with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. The support for the cause was so great that Negro History Month began to be celebrated as early as the 1940s in some parts of the country. Kent State University would then go on to propose the first official Black History Month in February of 1969.

As part of the country's bicentennial celebrations, President Gerald Ford recognized Black History Month as important to all Americans in 1976.

“In celebrating Black History Month, we can take satisfaction from this recent progress in the realization of the ideal envisioned by our Founding Fathers. But, even more than this, we can seize the opportunity to honor the too-often-neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”

The associations of foods like fried chicken, Kool-Aid, and watermelon with African Americans have historical roots in racist stereotypes that emerged during the era of slavery and continued through the Jim Crow era and beyond.

Fried Chicken: The stereotype of African Americans enjoying fried chicken can be traced back to the antebellum South when slaves were given the scraps and less desirable parts of the chicken by their owners. After emancipation, fried chicken became a staple in the diets of many African Americans due to its affordability and availability. During this time, African Americans could not stop just anywhere when traveling so there was a need for food that would be good cold and keep for a while during long journeys.

Kool-Aid: The association between Kool-Aid and African Americans is linked to economic factors. Kool-Aid was an affordable drink mix, and its popularity grew during times of economic hardship. Advertisers targeted lower-income communities, and over time, this contributed to the stereotype that Kool-Aid was a staple in African American households.

Watermelon: The stereotype linking watermelon to African Americans dates back to the post-Civil War period. Watermelon, being a cheap and abundant fruit, became a symbol of freedom for newly emancipated slaves. However, racist caricatures emerged, depicting African Americans as lazy and childlike, often eating watermelon. This harmful stereotype persisted, and the fruit became a symbol of racial denigration.

While the actual consumption of these foods by African Americans is no different from any other group, these stereotypes were reinforced through media portrayals and advertising.

Dr. Mae Jemison (b. 1956)

In 1992, she became the first African American woman to travel in space aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour.

Dr. Mae Jemison OCLS Resources

Rosa Parks (1913-2005)

Often referred to as the "Mother of the Civil Rights Movement," Parks refused to give up her bus seat to a white man in Montgomery, Alabama, sparking the Montgomery Bus Boycott.

Rosa Parks OCLS Resources

Ann Lowe (1898-1981)

A pioneering African American fashion designer, Lowe designed the wedding dress for Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis.

Ann Lowe OCLS Resources 

Jean-Michel Basquiat (1960-1988)

An influential neo-expressionist artist, Basquiat's works often explored issues of race, identity, and social issues.

Jean-Michel Basquiat OCLS Resources 

Toni Morrison (1931-2019)

An iconic novelist, Morrison won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1993 for her novels exploring the African American experience, including "Beloved" and "Song of Solomon.

Toni Morrison OCLS Resources 

Alvin Ailey (1931-1989) 

A choreographer and activist, Ailey founded the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, which became a leading force in modern dance.

Alvin Ailey OCLS Resources

Sidney Poitier (1927-2022)

A trailblazing actor, Poitier became the first African American to win the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in "Lilies of the Field" (1963).

Sidney Poitier OCLS Resources

Barack Obama (b. 1961)

In 2008, Barack Obama became the first African American to be elected President of the United States.

Barack Obama OCLS Resources

Jackie Robinson (1919-1972)

Breaking the color barrier in Major League Baseball in 1947, Robinson's impact on sports and society was monumental.

Jackie Robinson OCLS Resources 

Juneteenth (June 19th): Also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. It marks the day in 1865 when Union General Gordon Granger announced in Texas that all slaves were free, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation.

OCLS Juneteenth Resources

Kwanzaa (December 26th to January 1st): Created by Dr. Maulana Karenga in 1966, Kwanzaa is a week-long celebration of African American and Pan-African culture. It involves lighting candles on a kinara, giving and receiving gifts, and reflecting on principles known as the Nguzo Saba.

OCLS Kwanzaa Resources

Black History Month (February): While not a holiday in the traditional sense, Black History Month is an annual observance that celebrates the achievements and contributions of African Americans throughout history. It provides an opportunity to educate and reflect on the Black experience.

Black History Month Resources

Malcolm X Day (May 19th): Honoring the birthday of Malcolm X, a prominent figure in the civil rights movement, this day is recognized in some communities to celebrate his contributions to the struggle for civil rights and social justice.

OCLS Malcolm X Resources

Harriet Tubman Day (March 10th): Recognizing the birth of Harriet Tubman, a key figure in the Underground Railroad and an abolitionist, this day celebrates her courage and dedication to the liberation of enslaved individuals.

OCLS Harriet Tubman Resources

HBCU Homecomings: Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) often celebrate homecoming with festive events, including parades, football games, and concerts. These events bring alumni, students, and the community together to celebrate the history and legacy of these institutions.

African American Vernacular English (AAVE): Also known as Ebonics, AAVE is a distinct linguistic variety that has its roots in the historical experiences of African Americans. It encompasses unique grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation patterns, and it is an important aspect of African American linguistic identity.

Harlem Renaissance Literature: The Harlem Renaissance, a cultural and artistic movement that emerged in the 1920s, gave rise to a flourishing of African American literature. Writers such as Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, and Claude McKay produced works that explored the Black experience, identity, and culture.

OCLS Harlem Renaissance Resources

Afrofuturism: Afrofuturism is a literary and cultural movement that explores the intersection of African diasporic culture with science fiction, fantasy, and speculative fiction. This genre often envisions alternative futures and reimagines historical narratives, providing a space for African American creativity and empowerment.

The Black Arts Movement: Emerging in the 1960s and 1970s, the Black Arts Movement sought to emphasize the importance of Black culture and creativity. Writers such as Amiri Baraka and Sonia Sanchez were central figures in this movement, producing literature that reflected the political and cultural struggles of the time.

Hair Braiding: Intricate hair braiding styles are a cultural tradition in many African American communities. These styles can carry significant cultural and personal meaning, and the process of braiding often serves as a bonding experience within families.

Quilting: Quilting has a deep tradition within African American culture, with quilts often telling stories, preserving history, and serving as a form of artistic expression. The tradition of quilting has been passed down through generations and is celebrated for its intricate designs and symbolism.

Story Quilts: Some African American artisans create story quilts that serve as visual narratives, depicting historical events, family stories, or personal experiences. These quilts are both functional and artistic, combining storytelling with the visual arts.

The Stories Behind African American Quilts

African American Folk Art: Folk art in the African American tradition often includes sculptures, paintings, and other handmade objects that capture the essence of daily life, spirituality, and cultural identity. The use of vibrant colors, recycled materials, and symbolism is common in this form of expression.

Basket Weaving: Basket weaving is a traditional craft that has been passed down through generations in African American communities. The art of weaving baskets is not only functional but also holds cultural significance, with each pattern and design often carrying specific meanings.

Textile Arts: Textile arts, including fabric dyeing, embroidery, and fabric painting, are integral to African American craft traditions. These arts are often used to create vibrant and symbolic garments, textiles, and accessories.

Woodworking and Carving: Woodworking and carving have been important crafts within African American communities, producing items such as figurines, masks, and functional objects. These creations often draw inspiration from African artistic traditions.

Spoken Word and Poetry: African American traditions include a strong emphasis on spoken word and poetry as powerful forms of self-expression and activism. Poets such as Langston Hughes and Maya Angelou have made significant contributions to this tradition.

Oral Tradition: The oral tradition has been a significant means of preserving and transmitting African American culture. Folktales, proverbs, and storytelling have played a crucial role in passing down cultural values, history, and wisdom from generation to generation.

OCLS Folk Tales Resources

10 African and African American Folktales for Children

Mary McLeod Bethune (1875–1955)

Bethune was an educator, political leader, and civil rights activist. She founded Bethune-Cookman University in Daytona Beach, which started as a boarding school for African American girls.

Mary McLeod Bethune OCLS Resources

A. Philip Randolph (1889–1979)

Randolph was a labor leader and civil rights activist who played a key role in the struggle for equal rights for African Americans. He organized the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, the first predominantly African American labor union.

A. Philip Randolph OCLS Resources

Zora Neale Hurston (1891–1960)

A prominent author and anthropologist, Hurston was associated with the Harlem Renaissance. She spent much of her life in Florida and wrote extensively about the African American experience, including her famous novel "Their Eyes Were Watching God."

Zora Neal Hurston OCLS Resources

James Weldon Johnson (1871–1938)

Johnson was a key figure in the early civil rights movement and a leader in the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). He served as the first African American head of the NAACP and was also a poet, songwriter, and diplomat.

James Weldon Johnson OCLS Resources

Ray Charles (1930–2004)

The legendary musician Ray Charles, known for his contributions to soul, jazz, and rhythm and blues, spent a significant portion of his childhood in Florida. His childhood home in Greenville is now the Ray Charles Childhood Home and Museum.

Ray Charles OCLS Resources

Gwendolyn Sawyer Cherry (1923–1979)

Cherry was a pioneering African American lawyer and the first black woman to be admitted to the Florida Bar. She was a trailblazer in the legal profession, advocating for civil rights and equality.

Gwendolyn Sawyer Cherry OCLS Resources

Dorothy Pitman Hughes (1938-2022)

While primarily known for her activism in New York, Hughes also had ties to Florida. She was a civil rights, feminist, and child welfare activist, known for her collaboration with Gloria Steinem in co-founding the Women's Action Alliance.

Dorothy Pitman Hughes OCLS Resources

Restaurants 

Chicken Fire

Good Bakes Co.

Nikki’s Place

Nile Ethiopian

Mark's Jamaican Bar and Grill

Phattychow

Shantell’s Just Until...

Sister Honey’s

Something Fishy Seafood Restaurant

Streetwise Urban Food

Shopping 

Bloom In Glory

Miscellaneous Market

Naked Bar Soap Company

Pretty Peacock Paperie

Health Care

C & C Pharmacy

Kris Woodson: 

Highlights should include the impacts of Black Americans and African American people, in the arts, music, film & television, literature, education, fashion, athletics, entertainment, culinary, and politics.  Black Americans and African American people are more than the struggles, slave history, and systematic racism that are popularized and made visible daily.

Mariah Moorman: 

I think it would be nice to encourage staff to look for a way to tie a program or event to Black History if/when it's being held in February or to consider the materials being used in the program. For example, in the Hip Hats program - when making a sample hat staff could choose to make it in Pan-African colors then draw attention to it when presenting to the kids and possibly share a quick fact before transitioning to the rest of the program. This could also extend to other heritage months as well. 

When discussing stereotypes and tropes, I think the most important thing to do is share the background behind it. Confronting and dissecting the stereotype is more powerful than to avoid the stereotype entirely. If staff is faced with something they think is harmful or racist or offensive, then I think they should dive deeper to see if they can figure out where it is coming from and educate their audience about it as well. Burying it will only mean less people know it's wrong. You don't know what you don't know.  

Brianna Fulford: 

In previous libraries I have work at, I used African-American history month to celebrate African-American achievements. This is the month to highlight African-American scientists, artists, politicians, actors, entrepreneurs, architects, doctors, lawyers, athletes, engineers, and more. Who was the first in their field? What education did they have? How they helped shape the world we live in now? This is to show readers -especially African-American - they can be anything they want. These are not jobs for certain races. They belong just as much as anyone else.

As far as literature goes African-American books fall into two categories. 1. Black is Beautiful (I.E. Sulwe by Lupita Nyong-o, 2. Every Day Life (I.E. Stacey’s Extraordinary Words) While the first is important I find that readers want more of the second. They want to read a book to their child about a black girl making cupcakes. Teens want books with an African-American teen nervous about the upcoming test while their parents are divorcing.  When making a display of books put out the first but also find more of the second. Readers want to be able to see themselves in every day of life.

Gospel Music: Gospel music is a significant musical tradition within the African American community, deeply rooted in Christian spirituality. It is characterized by powerful vocals, emotional expression, and often features call-and-response patterns. Gospel music has influenced various music genres, including R&B and soul.

Call and Response: Derived from African musical traditions, call and response is a form of interaction between a leader and a group. It is commonly found in African American music, particularly in spirituals, gospel, and jazz, and is a way of fostering community engagement and participation.

Community Drum Circles: Drawing from African drumming traditions, community drum circles are gatherings where individuals come together to play percussion instruments. This practice promotes community bonding, rhythm exploration, and cultural preservation.

Spirituals and Hymns: Spirituals are religious songs that originated during the time of slavery and were often used as a form of expression, communication, and resistance. Many spirituals continue to be an integral part of African American religious traditions. Additionally, hymns and gospel music have played a vital role in shaping the musical and linguistic landscape of the community.

Hip-Hop Culture: Hip-hop, originating in African American and Latino communities, has had a profound impact on language and literature. Through rap lyrics, spoken word, and storytelling, hip-hop artists address social issues, share personal narratives, and contribute to the literary landscape.

Blues: The blues, born in the American South, is characterized by its expressive lyrics, soulful melodies, and a distinct 12-bar musical structure. It has influenced a wide range of musical genres, including jazz, rock, and R&B.

Jazz: Jazz, a genre that originated in the early 20th century, blends African and European musical elements. Improvisation, syncopation, and swing rhythms are key features. Figures like Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington were instrumental in its development.

Rock and Roll: Rooted in R&B and blues, rock and roll became a groundbreaking genre that transcended racial boundaries. Figures like Chuck Berry and Little Richard were pioneers who left an indelible mark on the genre.

Reggae: Originating in Jamaica, reggae music has roots in African and Caribbean traditions. Bob Marley, a global reggae ambassador, played a crucial role in popularizing the genre worldwide.

Soul Food: Soul food is a traditional African American cuisine that originated in the Southern United States. It often includes dishes like fried chicken, collard greens, cornbread, and sweet potato pie. These foods have historical roots in the African American experience and are often associated with family gatherings and celebrations.

Gumbo: Originating in Louisiana, gumbo is a stew that combines West African, French, and Spanish culinary influences. It typically includes a variety of proteins like chicken, sausage, and seafood, combined with vegetables and a roux-based sauce, served over rice.

Jambalaya: Another Louisiana classic, jambalaya is a one-pot dish that combines rice with a mix of meats such as sausage, chicken, and sometimes seafood. It's seasoned with a blend of spices, often including cayenne pepper, paprika, and thyme.

Barbecue: African American barbecue traditions have roots in the Southern United States. Barbecue involves slow-cooking meats, often pork or beef, over wood or charcoal. Barbecue sauces can vary regionally, with styles like Memphis, Texas, and Carolina barbecue offering distinctive flavors.

Hoppin' John: A dish with West African and Caribbean influences, Hoppin' John consists of black-eyed peas, rice, and pork (such as bacon or ham hocks). It's often served on New Year's Day for good luck.

Chitlins (Chitterlings): Chitlins are a dish made from cleaned and fried pig intestines. While they have historical roots in resourcefulness and making use of available ingredients during times of slavery, they are less commonly consumed today.

Collard Greens: A staple in Southern cuisine, collard greens are often slow-cooked with smoked ham hocks or other pork for flavor. They are a popular side dish and are associated with good luck in some traditions.

OCLS Soul Food Resources

Stepping: Stepping is a percussive dance form that originated in African American fraternities and sororities. It involves synchronized stomping, clapping, and spoken word elements, creating a dynamic and rhythmic performance. Stepping is often used as a form of self-expression, competition, and unity.

African Dance: African dance traditions, with their rhythmic movements and storytelling aspects, have been preserved and adapted in African American communities. They often involve energetic footwork, body isolations, and communal participation.

Hip-Hop Dance: Hip-hop dance includes a variety of styles such as breaking, locking, and popping. It is often improvisational and allows for individual expression. Dance crews and battles are integral to the hip-hop dance culture.

Mable Butler

In 1984, Mable Butler was the first Black woman to be elected to the Orlando City Council, and she was the first Black person to serve in the Orange County Commission. 

Mercerdese Richardson Clark 

In addition to serving on dozens of community boards in Orlando, Mercerdese Richardson Clark was the first Black woman to become director of the Orange County Health Department. 

Dr. Jerry B. Callahan 

Dr. Callahan moved to Orlando in 1908 after earning a medical degree from Shaw University. He was the first black doctor to open a medical practice in Orlando and the first to perform surgery at Orange General Hospital (now Orlando Health).

Napoleon Ford

Napoleon “Nap” Ford was an educator and civil rights leader who spent most of his life in Parramore. He taught at Jones High School and Winter Park High School. In 1980, Mr. Ford was elected to serve as the first representative of the newly created District 5. He served his community for five consecutive terms before retiring in 1998. 

Dr. I Sylvester Hankins 

Sylvester Hankins, an Orlando native, graduated from Howard University Medical School in 1926. He was one of only four black doctors in town at that time. As an advocate for equal opportunity for black residents, Dr. Hankins led initiatives for schools, zoning, the arts, and residential development in what is now Washington Shores. 

Orlando Sentinel Article

Arthur Kennedy

Born in 1913, Arthur “Pappy” Kennedy came to Orlando in 1928. He was elected to the Orlando City Council in 1973, the first African American to hold a seat. He won his campaign for a second term with a record-breaking 78% of the vote. He was involved with many organizations, including the United Negro College Fund and the NAACP, and was president of the Jones High School PTA.

Spectrum News 13 Article

Dr. Alzo Reddick 

He was the first in his family to graduate from college and went on to earn a master’s and two doctorate degrees. In 1982, he became the first African American from the Orlando area to be elected to the Florida House of Representatives. He served consecutive terms from 1982 to 2000 and was the first African American in the state to pass a constitutional amendment, which he did—twice. Dr. Reddick is an Assistant Vice President at UCF. 

Z. L. Riley 

Zellie L. Riley was a significant civil rights leader and businessman in Parramore. Along with Dr. Wells and Mr. Kennedy, Mr. Riley played a key role in organizing the Orlando Negro Chamber of Commerce (now known as the African American Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida) and was elected as its president in 1946. His imprint on the community endures with the  Z.L. Riley Park that was dedicated in his memory in 1977.

Dr. William Monroe Wells

Dr. William Wells was one of the few black doctors in Orlando, and for a period during WWII he was the only one. During his years in practice, Dr. Wells was a crucial member of the community. He delivered more than 5,000 babies and often provided free healthcare for low-income black families.