I hope you’re enjoying Black History Month so far — it’s been great to see how people have been celebrating in different ways. Some are watching Black movies every day, some are visiting local Black-owned restaurants for the first time, and many have been tracing their genealogy back for generations to uncover their own history!
If you are looking for additional ways to get involved this month, check out these five Black-owned Instagram accounts that you should follow and support.
Dope Black Art
Dope Black Art is an account that showcases artists of all kinds to help bring them more awareness and followers. You’ll see everything from paintings, digital art, photography, films, and influential Black artists. If you love art (which we all should), definitely give this account a follow.
Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC)
You’ve probably already heard of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, which is the largest museum in the country focusing on African American history and culture. The works of art on display are not only beautiful and thought-provoking, but they also illuminate how African Americans shaped the foundation and culture of the United States through resilience and perseverance. This museum is located in Washington, D.C. and is well worth the trip, especially since general admission tickets are free!
Blavity News
Blavity is the place to get all your Black news. In addition to sharing positive and uplifting news and funny content, they tackle social justice issues and provide a reliable source of information around the Black community that is accessible and engaging. (Think of a more polished and professional version of The Shade Room.) I highly recommend giving them a follow.
Strong Black Lead
Strong Black Lead is an account run by Netflix to promote Black stories and Black faces in TV and film. The goal is to bring awareness to content that may not be receiving as much attention as other shows. This is incredibly important as a way to show representation on screen. If you want to expand your catalog of funny, emotional, romantic, or thriller movies through the lens of the Black experience, you have to follow this account!
Equal Justice Initiative (EJI)
Equal Justice Initiative is a non-profit organization that works to combat mass incarceration, to challenge racial and economic injustice, and to protect essential human rights for the most vulnerable group of people in America. They accomplish this by providing legal representation to people who have been illegally convicted, unjustly sentenced, or abused by the criminal justice system.
EJI publishes groundbreaking reports, produces short films, curates museums and memorials, and organizes tours to educate students, teachers, professionals, community groups, churches, and other organizations. The organization goes above and beyond with their commitment to equality. We highly encourage you to follow their page and support in whatever way you can.
Additional accounts to check out:
We hope you enjoy Black History Month and take some time to learn a little more about African American culture along the way!
