Reflect, learn, & celebrate the incredible contributions of Black change-makers with engaging activities, discussion prompts, and fun riddles.
BHM ACTIVITY: CRACK THE CODE
Crack The Code
Uncover famous black personalities who paved the way for reforms through their work and diligence with this fun Crack The Code Activity.
Perfect for home and classroom learning.
This simple Black History month activity for kids is great way to get their minds racing to decode the hidden names of famous Black personalities.
Here’s why kids love it:
- Its a fun game and far from boring;
- Boost reasoning and deduction skills;
- Can be easily turned into a Minute-to-Win-It Challenge.
Once everyone has completed, discuss these famous personalities and question kids what is their opinion was the biggest contribution made by each personality.
AFRICAN AMERICANS AND LABOR: BLACK HISTORY MONTH THEME
Every year, Black History Month follows a specific theme selected by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, ASALH, to spotlight key aspects of Black history, culture, and achievements.
This year’s theme, African Americans and Labor, aims to highlights the diverse ways Black individuals have contributed to society, from the forced labor of slavery to the fight for fair wages and working conditions in various industries.
A few prominent names that pop-up for this theme are:
- A. Philip Randolph (1889-1979)
He organized the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, the first Black labor union in the United States and fought for equal rights for Black workers.
2. Addie L. Wyatt (1924-2012)
A labor leader, civil rights advocate, and women’s rights activist, Wyatt was one of the first African American women to hold a senior position in a major labor union. She fought for fair wages, better working conditions, and equal opportunities for all workers.
3. Karen Lewis (1954-2020)
An educator and union leader, Lewis was the president of the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) and played a significant role in advocating for teachers’ rights and public education reform.
BLACK HISTORY MONTH DISCUSSION STARTERS
Encourage kids to think about this year’s theme for Black History Month and its relevance pertaining to the issues of fairness, equality, and justice in the workplace.
Here are a few ideas:
- Why do you think it’s important for people to be paid fairly for their work?
- What are some of the challenges you think Black workers faced in the past? What challenges might they still face today?
- What is a union? Why do you think black workers formed a union?
- How can we learn from the past to create a more just and equitable workplace for everyone?
Discussion prompts like these help kids develop empathy, critical thinking, and a sense of social responsibility. These ideas help young minds to develop tools they need to create a society where everyone has equal opportunity to thrive.
RIDDLES – WHO AM I?
See how much kids know about the great Black contributors with these easy Who am I riddles:
- I led people to freedom using secret routes, but I never rode a train. Who am I?
- I refused to give up my seat, but I stood up for justice. Who am I?
- I had a dream that changed the world. Who am I?
Thank you for being part of our learning community! We hope this Black History Month edition helps you inspire young minds and spark important conversations.
UNTIL NEXT WEEK, STAY CURIOUS!
