Why We Need Black History Month
![African-American student raising their hand in class, seen from behind.](/sites/default/files/styles/article_thumbnail_s_m_l_xl/public/2019-01/Teaching-Tolerance-race-ethnicity-052.jpg?itok=DgPFWsWO)
In response to the terrifying and deadly “Unite the Right” rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, in 2017, use the highlighted resources to contextualize the event for students and to learn about the alt-right movement and white supremacy at large.
This year, the Fourth of July arrives amid protests against racism and police brutality toward Black Americans and a focus on the role white supremacy has always played in the United States. As these resources show, this holiday and its symbols are tied to a long tradition of protest and demands that our nation make good on its promise of freedom for all.
Anti-Blackness is pervasive and has material consequences for all people, including and especially Black children whose presence is often overlooked—and, ironically, villainized—in favor of all things that uphold white supremacy. These LFJ resources offer specific actions educators, parents, caregivers and communities can take to insist upon the well-being of Black children.
When it comes to investing in racial justice in education, we believe that the South is the best place to start. If you’re an educator, parent or caregiver, or community member living and working in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana or Mississippi, join our community and subscribe to our magazine.