Black History Month: Teaching Beyond Slavery

Celebrate Black History Month and resist attempts to erase the democratic values of justice, equity, inclusivity and diversity — our nation’s strengths. Black history in the United States includes understanding Black people’s resilience and contributions to our nation, along with strategies for coalition-building and justice movements that are essential today. Learning for Justice offers the following resources to help discuss, teach and learn from Black history all year long.
When it comes to Native American history and culture, many textbooks are light on relevant content. Learn about a new Smithsonian program and state initiatives designed to support robust, accurate teaching about Native history and contemporary issues.
Young people aren't alone in seeking opportunities to learn honest history, and the classroom isn't the only location where such education can take place. In various community spaces—including virtual ones—many adults are also willing to do the work reckoning with our nation’s history of anti-Blackness and white supremacy, recognizing that past in the present and finding liberatory ways forward. These LFJ resources highlight possibilities for self-reflection and ongoing learning.
The accurate history of American slavery should be taught to children in age-appropriate and honest ways that develop critical thinking, while recognizing that Black history is U.S. history and goes beyond slavery. These LFJ publications—including Teaching Hard History: American Slavery, a K-12 curriculum framework—reinforce the importance of teaching this history honestly and provide resources for educators and parents.