Hey y’all!

Happy Black History Month! The fact is, Black history is American history, and the achievements and contributions of Black folks in this country have helped shape it into what we know today.

It’s important to educate yourself on Black history year-round, and February is an especially great time to dive into the history that isn’t always taught in schools, think critically about its connection to modern-day issues, and actively promote anti-racist education that centers the Black experience.

You can start with our Black History Month watchlist, and find a film or show (or several!) to add to your Netflix queue this month and beyond.

Let’s Do This,

Jackie

DoSomething members particiating in Diversity Book Club

DoSomething Members Are Fighting Erasure This Black History Month and Beyond With Virtual Book Clubs

Black history is being made every day -- just look back at the events of the past year. The Black Lives Matter movement ignited global protests against anti-Black policing and brutality, earning it a Nobel Peace Prize nomination. Stacey Abrams is also nominated for her voting rights work that helped power historic turnout and elect Sen. Raphael Warnock, Georgia’s first Black senator. And of course, Vice President Kamala Harris became the first Black woman to fill the second-highest position in the executive office.

Yet, so many schools’ teaching of Black history begins and ends with slavery and segregation (and some don’t even require that). It’s led students across the country to call on their schools to include more Black voices and experiences in their education. And some DoSomething members are taking matters into their own hands through our Diversity Book Club campaign.

“As a Black student growing up in America, we learn about ourselves in a revisionist history and solely through the lens of oppression,” says DoSomething member Taj, 20. “Reading authors like Octavia Butler and James Baldwin allows me to feel connected to my past and to all past and future generations of Black Americans.”

“Stories tether us all together, as if we're all holding onto a single rope that spans throughout history and unites us. Black stories remind me that I have a place in this world and this country.”

Over 1,600 DoSomething members have signed up to host virtual book clubs with their friends to read and discuss texts that center authors and protagonists from underrepresented groups.

“Society’s opinions and understanding of different cultures is heavily influenced by entertainment. It is vital that BIPOC are creating their own narratives,” says DoSomething member Sally, 19. “Authors like Octavia Butler inspire me to believe that I can one day become a successful author. Reading books by Black authors makes me feel valued, visible, and powerful.”

Fight erasure and elevate Black voices this Black History Month by hosting your own Diversity Book Club. (You’ll also get access to our list of book recommendations and tips. Plus, you’ll earn verified volunteer credits!)

This week in Pets of DoSomething… DoSomething members Iris’ cat, Zoe’s cat, Lily’s dog, Madison’s dog, and Caroline’s dog (who she describes as a “sodapup” doing the 5 Cans Challenge!!!).

This week in Black joy (just in time for Black History Month!)… a 10-year-old made $3,000 from GameStop stocks he got for Kwanzaa, the Black Lives Matter movement is nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize, Amanda Gorman will recite poetry before the Super Bowl, and this mom still has MOVES.

Read about how improving transportation… can fight climate change and save lives on the road too.

If you want to know how young Americans are really experiencing the current moment… check out this crucial report from DoSomething Strategic.

Calling all 15- to 17-year-old innovators, artists, and activists… to apply for the truly life-changing RISE program by February 10.

Let’s Stress Less: Read this mental health resource guide powered by DoSomething members like you.

More Amazing Impact From the DoSomething Community!

We asked you to brag about the amazing stuff you’re doing, and you did not disappoint. Here are some of our favorite answers from the DoSomething community. (Psst...submit yours here!)

“Me and other journalists in my school's newspaper club recently published our first issue, about politics, movies/books, and school news. I wrote about a free after-school summer camp for kids that was started by seniors in my school!”

- DoSomething member Tolu, 14, Michigan

“I am a part of this organization called Justice in the Classroom and we are a group of students (either currently in, or graduated form the VUSD district) and are fighting for curriculum reform/social justice within classrooms.”

- DoSomething member Terra, 20, California

“I campaigned to have an LGBTQ+ channel on a community Discord server, and now there is one!”

- DoSomething member Molly, 12, Wisconsin