Foodies Guide to Celebrating Black History Month

Food is a universal language that brings people together, and it’s also a powerful way to celebrate culture, history, and community. Black History Month is an opportunity to honor the contributions of Black Americans to our shared history while fostering a deeper understanding of their resilience, innovation, and culture.

From highlighting Black-owned brands to hosting thoughtful office events, there are countless ways to make these celebrations meaningful and inclusive. In this guide, we’ll explore the history behind these holidays, spotlight Black-owned brands to stock your office pantry, and share ideas to help your team celebrate with authenticity and impact.

The History Behind Black History Month

Celebrated every February, Black History Month honors the achievements and contributions of Black Americans throughout history. The origins date back to 1915 when Carter G. Woodson and others laid the groundwork for what would become a nationwide celebration: 

• 1915: Carter G. Woodson traveled to Chicago to participate in a national celebration of the fiftieth anniversary of emancipation.
• 1916: Woodson founded The Journal of Negro History to promote the study of Black life and history.
• 1926: Woodson launched Negro History Week in February, aligning it with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln (February 12) and Frederick Douglass (February 14).
• 1920s: The movement gained momentum as Black history clubs formed, and schools and communities began celebrating Negro History Week.
• 1937: With the encouragement of Mary McLeod Bethune, Woodson established the Negro History Bulletin to focus on the annual theme.
• 1940s-50s: Grassroots efforts in places like West Virginia and Chicago helped expand the celebration to a broader audience.
• 1960s: The Civil Rights Movement played a pivotal role in shifting from Negro History Week to Black History Month, especially on college campuses.
• 1976: The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) helped institutionalize Black History Month as we know it today, with U.S. presidents issuing proclamations in support each year.

Black-Owned Brands to Enjoy 

• Coco5: Coco5 is a natural fitness drink founded by a group of Black athletes who were inspired to create a better way to hydrate without artificial additives. Packed with five essential electrolytes, Coco5 is trusted by professional and collegiate teams across North America. The founders, former athletes who understand the importance of clean hydration, are passionate about promoting healthier living through refreshing beverages. Their commitment to clean ingredients and wellness makes Coco5 a go-to choice for those seeking to hydrate naturally and effectively.
• Pipcorn: Pipcorn, a Black- and women-founded brand, was created by Jen and Jeff Martin, who were inspired by the idea of making better-for-you snacks with heirloom corn. Their mission was to provide a healthier alternative to traditional salty snacks while still delivering the same satisfying crunch. With products made from 100% non-GMO ingredients, the Martins’ dedication to sustainability and innovation shines through in every bite. Their journey to success, including being featured on "Shark Tank" and named one of Oprah’s Favorite Things, is a testament to their hard work and commitment to providing healthier snack options for everyone.
• Partake Foods: Partake Foods was founded by Denise Woodard, a Black entrepreneur who created the brand after her daughter was diagnosed with food allergies. Driven by a need to make safe, delicious snacks for her daughter, Denise developed a line of gluten-free, vegan, and allergy-friendly treats that are free from the top nine allergens. Beyond her passion for creating inclusive snacks, Denise is a strong advocate for food security and diversity in the food industry. Her dedication to making allergy-friendly snacks that everyone can enjoy has helped Partake Foods become a leader in the industry, offering both safety and taste in every bite.
• Every Body Eat: Every Body Eat was co-founded by Nichole Wilson, a Black entrepreneur with a vision to make allergen-friendly snacks accessible to all. After seeing the challenges that people with dietary restrictions face, Nichole set out to create a brand that would cater to everyone, regardless of their food sensitivities. With a kitchen designed to meet the highest safety standards, Every Body Eat ensures that its snacks are both delicious and safe for those with allergies. Nichole’s commitment to inclusivity and her drive to create a brand that reflects her values have made Every Body Eat a trusted name in allergen-friendly foods.

How to Keep Your Black History Month Office Celebrations Inclusive 

• Survey your team members:
  Don’t make assumptions—engage with your team to understand how they’d like to observe these occasions. This ensures inclusivity and empowers employees to contribute their ideas, making everyone feel valued. 
  
• Spotlight your team's voices and history:
  Showcasing the experiences and achievements of your inclusive team should be a year-round effort. It's essential to celebrate the diversity within your organization consistently to create an environment where all team members feel valued, recognized, and empowered every day, not just during one specific holiday or month.
  
• Engage your employees in the workplace:
  Consider bringing in a guest speaker who is knowledgeable in Black history or culture. Their insights can facilitate rich discussions and provide your team with a broader perspective on the significance of these celebrations.
  
• Host a catered lunch from a Black-owned restaurant:
  Hosting a catered lunch from a Black-owned restaurant not only introduces your team to a delicious new restaurant but also supports local businesses and communities. It’s a great way to bring people together over food while making a positive impact.
  

Resources for Exploring Black History Month 

When it comes to DEI holidays, it’s normal to feel nervous about getting it right. Don’t let fear hold you back from celebrating Black History Month! Here are some reliable resources to help you learn more:

• National Museum of African American History and Culture
• ASALH: Association for the Study of African American Life and History

If you’re unsure, just ask! Acknowledge your desire to learn and involve your team in planning. This is also a great opportunity to collaborate with your DEI team or establish an Employee Resource Group (ERG) if you don’t already have one.

Conclusion

Black History Month is more than just dates on a calendar—it's an opportunity to reflect, learn, and connect. By celebrating through food, education, and shared experiences, your workplace can honor Black culture while fostering a sense of belonging and inclusion. Whether it’s through stocking Black-owned snacks or hosting thoughtful events, small actions can create lasting impact.