We celebrate Black History Month to recognize the sacrifices, contributions, and achievements of African Americans to the United States and the world. During this month of national reflection, we are highlighting some of the ways in which The Guidance Center commemorated and explored Black history and culture.
Black Resistance Coloring Book:
One of several projects created by our Justice Equity and Diversity Committee (JEDI), this coloring book can be used in schools to teach students about some of the ways African Americans have stood up to injustice throughout history. As African American students engage in this coloring activity, our hope is their positive self-concept will be reinforced and/or enhanced. The coloring book can be utilized to begin cultural conversations and facilitate the sharing of students’ positive cultural attributes and experiences. In addition, this coloring book promotes diversity and inclusion within the classroom environment.
For other resources for educators/teachers visit our Teachers Pay Teachers store.
TGC Book Club – Diversity Fishbowl Discussion:
Every month The Guidance Center’s Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) Committee hosts an online group discussion, known as a “Diversity Fishbowl,” in which committee members facilitate open conversations about topical subjects and issues. In celebration of Black History Month, they asked staff to reflect on the work of the Black Authors, writers, & philosophers. These powerful quotes urge participants to assess their relationship with injustice, systematic racism, and oppression.
Bad Feminist – Roxane Gay
“All too often, when we see injustices, both great and small, we think, That’s terrible, but we do nothing. We say nothing. We let other people fight their own battles. We remain silent because silence is easier… When we say nothing, when we do nothing, we are consenting to these trespasses against us.”
Assata – Assata Shakur
“Nobody in the world, nobody in history, has ever gotten their freedom by appealing to the moral sense of the people who were oppressing them.”
“Revolution is about change, and the first place the change begins is in yourself.”
Freedom Is a Constant Struggle – Angela Y. Davis
“I feel that if we don’t take seriously the ways in which racism is embedded in structures of institutions, if we assume that there must be an identifiable racist who is the perpetrator, then we won’t ever succeed in eradicating racism.”
Ways To Celebrate Black History Month – Local Events:
Celebrating the heritage and achievements of Black Americans is something that doesn’t need to be limited to just one month, especially here in Long Beach and surrounding communities. There are several online events and many in person happening throughout the month.
Check out our blog for events near you!
