February marks Black History Month and the NCTE African American Read-In (AARI). Both Black History Month and AARI pay tribute to African American citizens who struggled to achieve civil rights, full citizenship, and to have their voices heard. Thus, when you’re participating in Black History Month and AARI activities, remember that all writing by African American writers was a conscious choice to use their voice to fight for equality.
You can learn more about how words create connections and support collaboration, and how using your voice is a political choice in this TED Talk podcast with Amanda Gorman, the youngest inaugural poet in US history. In it, she explains why African American writing is inherently political and highlights the importance of speaking out despite your fears.
Let NEHS know what your chapter is doing to commemorate Black History Month by sharing photos of the Black writers that members of your chapter are reading on Instagram (@englishmatters), and by submitting Black History Month activities to our upcoming Chapter Spotlight.
NEHS student members and Chapter Advisors can commemorate Black History Month by wearing our limited-edition “Still, I rise” T-shirt, which is available now on Shop NEHS.
Black History Month Resources
Black History Month Resources for Teachers
National Education Association: Black History Month Lessons & Resources
Classroom resources for Black History Month
We Are Teachers: 34 Black History Month Activities for February and Beyond
ADL: Black History Month
Reading Rockets: Celebrating and Learning About Black History and Culture
AARI Resources
Prepare for the 2024 African American Read-In
African American Read-In
NCTE AARI Toolkit
Find and AARI Event
Register Your AARI Event
AARI Host Report Card
Book Recommendations for the African American Read-In
AARI Frequently Read Books
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