February is Black History Month, a time to honor and amplify black voices across the country. Black History Month officially began in February of 1976. Every year since the President of the United States has continued to name February Black History Month. This year’s theme is Black Health and Wellness, celebrating Black medical personnel throughout history.
Applied Development is a Black-owned business in the Baltimore community, and we believe in supporting the Black community. One way that we can do this – and your business can, too – is by finding ways to honor Black History Month in Baltimore.
Work with Black-Owned Businesses
Contracting with Black-owned businesses in the community is a great way to support them. It can also be beneficial for organizations that get government funding or work as government contractors.
Government-run organizations, in particular, have quotas to fill when it comes to working with minority-owned businesses. If you know a great minority-owned business and work within the government, recommend that business to your superiors.
Take a Company Field Trip
If your team has the ability to step out for half a day to participate in local cultural events, Black History Month is a great time to do so. The Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture in downtown Baltimore is rich with history and can provide a good team bonding experience.
For those businesses who cannot make the trip or would prefer not to, the museum also offers virtual tours and programming.
Another great option for celebrating Black culture in Baltimore is the Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park Museum. You can learn more about the museum and its interactive displays on the Living Classrooms website.
Donate to Black-Led Organizations
Never underestimate the power of a donation. Not only are charitable donations write-offs for your business, but they also can greatly benefit your organization of choice. Some great organizations to donate to during Black History Month in Baltimore include:
- NAACP
- ACLU Maryland
- Black Yield
Donations help honor Black History and improve the future for the Black community in Baltimore.
Feature Black-Owned Businesses on Your Social Media
If your business has social media channels, one of the best ways to help these businesses and organizations is to feature them on these pages. Tag their pages; give links to their websites; talk about your favorite products or services.
You can also take advantage of platforms like Instagram Reels and TikTok to collaborate with these businesses on content that is specific to your niche. Social media is a quick, free way to help more people see and interact with these businesses.
Honoring Black History All Year
While supporting Black-owned businesses and celebrating Black History is at the forefront in February, it is important to remember that Black History IS American History. Take time to educate yourself and support organizations and businesses like these all year long. It will create a richer, more diverse culture within your organization and benefit the Baltimore Black community.
Questions about encouraging diversity in your organization? Feel free to contact us!