As Black History Month draws to a close, let this month serve as a year-long reminder of the importance of being an ally to Black communities. At the same time, take time to acknowledge, celebrate, and enjoy the rich contributions of Black men and women to Minnesota's history, culture, and progress.  

Here are 5 impactful ways to celebrate Black History in Minnesota:

1. Support Black-owned businesses such as Daily Work staff restaurant favorites Afro Deli & Grill or Bolé Ethiopian Cuisine. For music, check out Minneosta's only Black-owned record store, Urban Lights Music in St. Paul. By supporting Black entrepreneurs, you can make intentional decisions with your money and uplift and empower our local Black community members.. For more options, check out this list from Mpls/St. Paul Magazine for black owned-businesses in the Twin Cities and https://mnblackbusiness.com/ for all of Minnesota.

2. Volunteer. There are hundreds of nonprofits that work tirelessly to advocate for racial justice. Research nonprofits and race equity programs and see how you can use your time or talents to learn something new and make a difference. Nonprofits such as the African American Leadership Forum, the Minnesota Black Chamber of Commerce, or the NAACP Minneapolis, advocate for race equity and provide vital services.

3. Celebrate the diverse talents of Black artists in Minnesota by attending performances by local musicians with international reknown such as Sounds of Blackness or Toki Wright, exploring galleries showcasing visual artists such as Ta-coumba Aiken or Seitu Jones, and supporting theaters featuring productions by playwrights like Carlyle Brown. The Minneapolis Institute of Art has a self-guided tour of galleries and works by Black artists.

4. Delve into the rich tapestry of Black history woven throughout Minnesota by exploring the Minnesota African American Heritage Museum and Gallery. The Minnesota Historical Society also has an initiative called Black History, Black Voices that centers Black narratives, history, and issues through ongoing programs, content, and resources created by members of Minnesota’s Black community.

5. Learn about Black prominent civil rights leaders from Minnesota such as Nellie Stone Johnson,  Roy Wilkins, or W. Harry Davis and read about Black Trailblazers in Minnesota’s History . 

Black History Month provides an opportunity to pay special attention to the recognitions and accomplishments of Black people throughout history. This month and every month, take these ideas as a starting place to honor and learn about the extraordinary ways Black people have shaped our state and our community.