Black History Month
February is Black History Month, a time to honor and celebrate the contributions of African Americans to the United States. February was chosen to coincide with two important birthdays, Abraham Lincoln, and Frederick Douglass. Lincoln, our 16th President, paved the way to abolish slavery. Douglas was a slave-turned-activist and prominent leader in the abolitionist movement, which sought to end the practice of slavery before and during the Civil War.
A great way to celebrate Black History Month is by getting involved and attending a local event, supporting a Black-owned business, and educating yourself on the history and impact of African Americans. O Bee employees are excited to support local Black-owned companies this month and beyond. We will share our experiences along the way.
Here are some ideas on how you can celebrate Black History Month:
ASHHO Cultural Community Center holds monthly events and has resources for Black and Indigenous owned businesses. It’s a place to unite through soul food, learn about different cultures and gather with the community.
ASHOO Website
The Outlet Collection Shopping Mall in Auburn presents a Black History Month Vendor Market, February 12-26th from 11am - 6pm. Located between Burlington and the Food Court. Come celebrate local Black-owned businesses!
Black History Month Vendor Market Calendar
Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI) in Seattle presents an exhibit titled “From the Ground Up: Black Architects and Designers” This will showcase and shine the light on the many ways Black architects have shaped the cityscapes throughout history.
From the Ground Up Exhibit
The Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) in Seattle is presenting their “Contact High” exhibit exploring four decades of photography from 1970 to today, which documented the revolution of music, politics, race relations, fashion, and culture with more than 170 images of influential artists such as Tupac, Jay-Z, Queen Latifah, Missy Elliott and more.
Contact High Exhibit
Black Night Market is hosting a Black owned business market on February 24, 2023 located at Edison Square Tacoma. There will be creative vendors, live performances, and amazing food to choose from.
Black Night Market
Metroparks Tacoma is celebrating Black History Month with free community events all through the month of February. This includes art activities for youth and families, Black History Trivia, Healthy Kids and Family Carnival, and more.
Metroparks Tacoma
One Vibe Africa is presenting its “6th Annual Kijiji Night” on February 24th from 5-9:30 PM at Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute. Kijiji means village in Swahili.
Kijiji Night
Tacoma Urban League provides child and youth programs along with resources for families. This site also includes a detailed list of Black-owned businesses you can support.
Tacoma Urban League Website
A Legacy: Dr. Claudia Thomas
Dr. Claudia Thomas was an activist, educator, and civic leader who believed in unity. Read her amazing story.
Read More →
Olympia Brewery Trailblazer
Phil Roberts, the first African American to work at the Olympia Brewery.
Read More →