5 Ways to Celebrate Black History Month

As an adoptive parent, you want your child to always feel seen, loved and supported. If you’re a white parent who has adopted a Black child, you may feel like your child’s race is inconsequential because your love for them transcends the differences in your ethnic and cultural backgrounds.

While that is how the love of a parent should be, not acknowledging your child’s racial background can be harmful in the long run, not only to them, but to your bond with them. February is Black History Month, a time to celebrate and acknowledge the Black culture and contributions throughout the past and present day. This is a perfect time to encourage your child to embrace their cultural heritage, learn more about their history and educate yourself on Black culture and identity.

Figuring out where to start with such an important topic can be difficult. You can reach out to your adoption professional to get additional guidance and helpful resources. In the meantime,  continue reading to learn about five ways you can celebrate Black History Month with your child.

1. Celebrate Black Artists

Introduce your child to Black artists, whether that is through visual arts or music. Throughout the centuries, the Black community has shaped the arts throughout the United States by channeling their cultural background, personal experiences and other influential figures in their lives.

Unfortunately, in the U.S. Black artists haven’t always been properly recognized or credited for their talents and contributions to the art and music world. Take  some time this month to support Black artists of today. This is also a great opportunity to educate them on influential Black artists throughout history such as Louis Armstrong, Jean-Michele Basquiat, Aretha Franklin, Kara Walker, etc.

2. Patron Black-Owned Businesses

Do some research and try to locate Black-owned businesses in your area. Whether that is restaurants, coffee shops, bookstores or anything else you can think of, take the time to visit them with your child. Not only can this help them see the value in supporting Black-owned businesses, but it can show them that they can own their own business someday too if that’s what they want.

By supporting Black-owned businesses, you are strengthening Black communities and helping them build their business into what they want it to be. Supporting Black businesses shouldn’t be a trend. Make it a habit.

3. Read Books by Black Authors

Whether they’re old enough to read on their own, or you read to them, reading books by Black authors can help you understand the perspectives of different Black people. This will help you to be a better ally, and can be valuable representation for your child. Even fictional books, as these are usually based on real-life experiences.

By reading stories by Black authors, you are honoring these artists and expanding your own understanding of other’s experiences.

4. Talk about Significant Black Historical Figures

Talk to your child about the contributions and achievements of Black people throughout history such as Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, Thurgood Marshal, Jackie Robinson, etc. Through  these important figures your child can see the amazing ways their cultural heritage has changed and evolved over the years.

Also be sure to make sure your child knows that they don’t have to be famous or revolutionary leaders to make a difference in the world.

5. Continuously Learn about Black History and Culture with Your Child

One of the best things you can do as a parent is to lead by example. Your child will notice when you‘re reading or learning about Black history and culture. This might not only inspire them to do the same, but also shows them that you care about their cultural heritage as well and that you’re making an effort to be involved.

With the internet today, the opportunities to learn more about Black history and culture are endless. Transracial adoption isn’t about loving your child regardless of their racial and cultural background. It’s about understanding that their cultural and racial heritage is a part of their identity, making sure that they feel loved and supported for who they are.

To get more information about how you can celebrate Black History Month with your child, reach out to an adoption professional today.