Black History Matters

Dear Spark Community:

Our motto at SPARK is: "Kindness without justice is incomplete." Because justice requires an authentic understanding of the truth, we are honored to highlight the origins of and importance of Black History month.

Our team has found great inspiration, calls to action, and helpful information in the resources below. We hope you will find these resources helpful as you look for ways to connect with this critical legacy this month and beyond.

In Kindness & Justice, 

The SPARK Kindness Team

About Black History Month

On February 7, 1926, noted Black historian Dr. Carter G. Woodson inaugurated the first celebration of "Negro History Week." Dr. Woodson sought to highlight Black Americans' rich history and contributions, often ignored or misrepresented in the story of America. Dr. Woodson advocated year-round study of Negro History, leading to its expansion from a week to Black History Month.

Dr. Woodson strategically chose February as it was a month that encompassed previous traditions and signified reform in Black communities. Since 1865, the Black community had celebrated Abraham Lincoln’s birthday (on February 12, 1809). In addition, Black communities had long celebrated Frederick Douglass’ chosen birthday, February 14, boosting Dr. Woodson’s initiative, which proved highly successful.

Resources to Celebrate and Educate

• Embrace Boston - Promotes racial and social justice and created The Embrace monument, honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Coretta Scott King, and Boston’s Black leaders.
• Things to Do for Black History Month
• Museum of African American History (locations in Boston and Nantucket)
• National Center of Afro-American Artists in Roxbury, MA
• Boston African American National Historic Site including the Black Heritage Trail (self-guided tours can be taken anytime, ranger guided tours available in summer and fall)

Featured Poem: "Still I Rise" by Maya Angelou