Since 1976, the month of February has annually served as a time to commemorate and celebrate the contributions of African Americans throughout history. While having evolved from it’s initial designation as “Negro History Week” in the late 20s to a full month of celebration, Black History Month has long struggled with its limited duration. February is the shortest month of the year, which can make it difficult to squeeze in cultural festivities and tackle Black book lists alike.

From spending time brushing up on early African American history to supporting Black artists, entrepreneurs and activists, there are a number of ways that we can embrace Black History all year round. Check out this guide curated by members of The Eagle’s Eye staff to learn how you can celebrate Black history and culture beyond just one month.

EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES & ORGANIZATIONS

Black literature, shows and films can serve as ongoing resources to stay educated and explore the underrepresented narratives of silenced communities. It’s crucial that we intentionally work to amplify Black voices all throughout the year, which can be done by supporting the initiatives of local Black organizations and activists. Additionally, celebrations like Raleigh’s annual Juneteenth festival can provide opportunities to honor Black history while connecting with the community over some great music and food.

Below is a list of resources curated by members of The Eagle’s Eye staff to help celebrate these aspects of Black History month:

Books

• I’m So (Not) Over You, Kosoko Jackson
• Almost There: A Twisted Tale, Farrah Rochon
• Dear Martin, Nic Stone
• THICK: And Other Essays, Tressie McMillan Cottom
• Concrete Rose, Angie Thomas
• Feminist Theory: From Margin to Center, bell hooks
• Americanah, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
• Freedom is a Constant Struggle: Ferguson, Palestine, and the Foundations of a Movement, Angela Davis
• I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, Maya Angelou
• Homegoing, Yaa Gyasi

Films, Shows, & Documentaries

• Malcolm X (1992)
• The Hate U Give (2018) based off of the book by Angie Thomas
• Moonlight (2016)
• On the Come Up (2022) based off of the book by Angie Thomas
• The Woman King (2022)
• Till (2022)
• Black-ish (2014)
  • Grown-ish (2018)
  • Mixed-ish (2019)
• Black Panther (2018) and Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022)
• The 1619 Project (2023)
• Hidden Figures (2016) based off of the book by Margot Lee Shetterly
• Selma (2014)
• 13th (2016)

Virtual Lectures

• “The Danger of a Single Story”, TedTalk by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Local Organizations

• Wake County Black Student Coalition
• The Beautiful Project
• North Carolina Black Alliance
• Triangle ADOS

 BLACK-OWNED BUSINESSES 

Where we spend our money matters. When we invest in Black-owned businesses, we cast a vote of our values and we have the opportunity to confront the unique barriers that African-American entrepreneurs face on the road to success. Many looking to launch businesses will begin without the security afforded by generational wealth, and remain disproportionately afflicted with the economic turmoil caused by COVID-19. Even while navigating their industries, implicit bias can further limit opportunities for African-American business owners to secure long-term funding and other resources. Despite these challenges, the Triangle area is home to a variety of thriving Black-owned businesses, each with something unique to offer. From fresh produce at Black Farmer’s Market to children’s books at Liberation Bookstore, there are sites for all to explore. 

Often shining a spotlight on Black-owned businesses, February provides a multitude of opportunities to discover and try out new Black-owned spots. But be warned: once you discover your favorite new business, it’ll be difficult to resist going back.

Restaurants and Food

• Awaze Cuisine (Cary)
• Oak City Fish n Chips (Raleigh)
•  Dame’s Chicken & Waffles (Cary & Durham)
•  Bestow Baked Goods (Holly Springs)
• Black Farmer’s Market (Durham-Raleigh rotation)
• Backyard Barbeque Pit (Durham)
• Black & White Coffee at Videri (Downtown Raleigh)
• Crema (Downtown Raleigh)

Retail

• The Bath Place (Raleigh, Rocky Mount)
• Anne’s Apothecary (Raleigh)
• Black Friday Market (Downtown Raleigh)
• Liberation Station Bookstore (Raleigh)
• Nashona – Boutique (Downtown Raleigh)
• Parure – Jewelry (Downtown Raleigh)
• Social Status – Sneakers and Street Fashion (Downtown Raleigh)
• Rofhiwa Book Café  

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

The Black community is known for their advances and innovation in arts and entertainment, and there’s plenty of ways to appreciate and celebrate that! In downtown Raleigh, the North Carolina Museum of History regularly holds events ranging from concerts and exhibits to interactive spaces. Any time of the year, visit CAM Raleigh to see the contemporary art of living artists from diverse backgrounds. Spaces such as these can provide Black artists with a platform to share their stories and work. And while you’re downtown, check out the amazing murals found throughout Raleigh, with many drawing inspiration from the Black Lives Matter protests of 2020 and other facets of Black life. 

There are a multitude of local Black artists that you can check out and support, with several listed below:

Artists Worth Exploring

• Ernie Barnes
• Harry Davis
• Endia Beal
• Vandorn Hinnant
• Beverly McIver
• Antoinne Williams
• Dare Coulter

Exhibits, Sites & Events

• African American Cultural Festival of Raleigh and Wake County
• NC Juneteenth Celebration
• NCMA Juneteenth Exhibition

Black history is American history, and it’s important that we work to honor and celebrate it. It’s never too late to begin. By taking the time to support local Black businesses, engage with educational resources and amplify the voices of Black people, we can move into the future in continued recognition of the contributions of this community.