February is Black History Month

Each February, we take the time to celebrate the resilience of black Americans and Boston residents during Black History Month.   Sharing the stories, struggles and accomplishments of African Americans and other individuals of African descent is important and resonant, in reflecting on past injustices, present inequities, and present and future victories. Reading books of lived experiences and histories, or perhaps attending a community event or performance, are strong ways of engaging with this history.   Listed below are our favorite up to date events, reading lists, resource lists and more:

• The Mayor’s Office of Equity and Inclusion shares this city sponsored aggregate page for Black History Month, complete with highlight city events and community conversations, as well as links to resources, tours, further education, and more.
• The Boston Museum of Science celebrates black history month with monthlong education on famous black scientists and engineers, as well as a special celebration February 10-11 featuring speakers, guest artists, and movie screenings at the OMNI screen theater.
• Each year, The Boston Public Library highlights a curated sampler list of recommended works on the black experience, as well as maintaining an extensive list of events held at city libraries.  
• The Boston Globe has a Black History Month page devoted to articles and editorials reflecting on black history and honoring civil rights activists in Boston, as well as suggestions on how to celebrate locally. 
• Boston.com, EventBrite, and All Events feature lists of local events, shows, readings and more celebrating Black History Month in the greater Boston Area, many of which are free and open to the public.
• MeetBoston.com maintains an up to date list of black owned businesses in the greater Boston Area to consider supporting.
• The Boston Music of African American History offers reserved tours, as well as links to further resources on the history of the black abolitionist movement in Boston and more.  Be sure to check out their calendar of hosted educational events for updates.  As highlighted in this article from the Boston Business Journal, they are also hosting curated movie screenings and discussions open to the community at several dates throughout the month.
• The Smithsonian offers a list of free and paid virtual events, classes, performances and more in February focusing on art and education, click the link to browse its many compelling options. 

• GLAD offers this extensive list of LGBT online and in person support networks and resources for gay, lesbian, transgender, and queer people of color.
• Black Mental Health Alliance is a mental health advocacy service for people of color. Their website includes a link offering to assist in reaching out for local referrals to those seeking mental health services,
• Innopsych is a database designed to help those who are searching for mental health counselors of color. 

As always, know you can reach out to us at the Employee Assistance Program for confidential counseling support, referrals and resources.  Have a wonderful month, stay warm!