National Black History Month
Black History Month, also known as African American History Month, is a vibrant celebration that highlights the rich cultural aspects of African Americans. This month-long observance recognizes the impact of African American culture on various aspects of American life, including art, music, literature, and cuisine.
Celebrate Black History Month by spotlighting African American-owned businesses, cultural products, and educational content while driving community engagement and retail sales.
- Feature Black-owned food & beverage brands with heritage recipes and chef stories
- Curate playlists and streaming content celebrating jazz, blues, and hip-hop legends
- Host in-store or virtual book clubs featuring African American authors
- Partner with museums and cultural institutions for exclusive virtual exhibits and educational events
Campaign ideas7
- Partner with Black creators & influencers for takeovers, interviews, and co-created content throughout February — amplify their voices in their own words rather than speaking for them
- Launch a Black-owned business spotlight series — feature 2-3 partner brands weekly with product recommendations, origin stories, and exclusive discounts or bundles
- Create an educational content series (daily or weekly profiles) highlighting influential Black figures across fields: science, arts, civil rights, tech, sports, music — with their achievements and modern-day impact
- Run a community giving campaign: collect donations for Black-led nonprofits, HBCUs, or racial equity organizations, with monthly matching or transparent tracking of funds raised
- Host a virtual film festival, music showcase, or art exhibition celebrating Black creators — free or low-cost access mirrors real-world activation (in-store events, live performances, art displays)
- Develop interactive social quizzes & trivia on Black history milestones — make learning fun, shareable, and engagement-driven with user-generated content challenges
- Implement the 'Fifteen Percent Pledge' in-store: expand shelf space for Black-owned brands and promote these wins on social media (retail brands especially)
Social angles6
- Meet the changemaker: Spotlight one Black entrepreneur, activist, or creator daily — their story, impact, and how customers can support them. #BlackHistoryMonth #BlackExcellence
- This Black artist/author/innovator made me think differently. Share lesser-known stories of Black leaders redefining industries. #BlackHistoryIsAmericanHistory
- Spotlighting our Black-owned partners this month (and beyond). Here's why we're committed to amplifying these voices year-round. #SupportBlackOwnedBusiness
- From resistance to joy: Our weekly theme celebrates Black culture — activism, faith, education, media, joy. What does it mean to you? #BlackHistoryMonth
- 🎬 Free film festival starting [date]: celebrating Black storytellers. Why representation in media matters — and how you can tune in. Link in bio.
- What Black leader inspires you most? Tell us — your story matters. #BlackHistoryMonth #BlackLeadership (encourage user engagement, comments, shares)
Ad copy starters4
“Every story counts. This February, we're amplifying Black voices — creators, founders, leaders. Explore their journeys.”
“Because of them, we can. Celebrating Black excellence in art, science, civil rights, and innovation. Join us.”
“More than a month. A movement. Supporting Black-owned businesses, creators, and communities — today and every day.”
“Freedom. Joy. Power. Celebrating the resilience and contributions of Black Americans. Watch, learn, support.”
Tips4
- Don't just talk—put money behind it: Partner with Black-led nonprofits, invest in HBCU initiatives, or commit budget to Black creators & vendors. 'Performative' campaigns feel hollow fast.
- Build it year-round, not just February: Dedicate shelf space, hiring pipelines, and team leadership to diversity. Authentic Black History Month campaigns reflect a culture of inclusion that's baked into the brand.
- Get your own team involved: Include diverse employees (especially Black staff) in campaign planning, let them tell their own stories, and respect privacy — features should always be optional.
- Lead with education & joy, not trauma: Balance historical struggles with celebration of Black culture, innovation, beauty, and contemporary wins. Audiences respond better when campaigns spark hope & pride.
Also called African American Heritage Month, this event started as a week-long celebration known as “Negro History Week” in 1926. Carter G. Woodson, a prominent African American historian, launched this initiative to emphasize the significant contributions of African Americans to U.S. history, which were often overlooked.
A week in February was chosen to honor the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, both influential figures in the fight against slavery.
In 1976, during the United States bicentennial, the celebration expanded to a month. This change allowed more time for educational activities and events to highlight African American achievements and culture.
Since then, every president has endorsed February as Black History Month. This month-long observance encourages schools, communities, and institutions to organize events and share knowledge about African American history.
Black History Month recognizes and honors the rich cultural heritage and contributions of African Americans. It provides an opportunity for reflection, education, and celebration of the diverse stories and accomplishments that shape American history.
This month helps to ensure that the legacies of African American leaders, artists, and activists continue to inspire future generations.
Cook Up Some Culture
Nothing says celebration like a feast. Try new recipes from African American chefs. Gumbo, cornbread, or sweet potato pie can make mouths water. Cooking together can create lasting memories. Remember to share the stories behind the dishes!
Groove to the Beats
Dive into the rich world of African American music. Explore jazz, blues, hip-hop, and more. Create a playlist that features legendary artists like Louis Armstrong or Aretha Franklin. Host a dance-off with friends and family. Music brings history to life in the most fun way.
Read and Reflect
Grab a book by an African American author. Works by Maya Angelou or James Baldwin can inspire and educate. Organize a book club and discuss the themes. Libraries often feature special collections during this month. Dive into stories that open new perspectives.
Visit Virtual Exhibits
Museums offer amazing virtual tours. Explore exhibits from the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture online. Discover artifacts and stories that highlight the African American experience. Virtual tours are fun and informative without leaving your couch.
Support Black-Owned Businesses
Shopping from African American entrepreneurs boosts the community. Look for unique handmade items, books, or clothes. This act of support makes a significant impact. Spread the word about great finds to friends. Everyone loves discovering new favorite stores.
Watch Documentaries
Stream documentaries that focus on African American history. “13th” or “I Am Not Your Negro” can provide deep insights. Host a movie night and invite friends. Follow up with lively discussions. Documentaries make learning engaging and entertaining.
Create Art Inspired by History
Let creativity flow by making art that celebrates African American culture. Paint, draw, or craft something unique. Share your creations on social media to spread awareness. Art can express appreciation and admiration in colorful ways. Get the whole family involved in a fun project.
Join Community Events
Many local groups organize special events. Attend a lecture, workshop, or performance. It can be exciting to meet new people with shared interests. Check community boards or social media for announcements. Participating in events can broaden understanding and connections.