How some Black communities are teaching Black history outside the classroom : NPR
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Some Black communities are reacting to the politicization of Black background curricula by highlighting background outside the classroom.
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Source hyperlink In recent years, Black communities across the United States have been making an effort to teach Black history outside of traditional classrooms. With the help of activists, community leaders, and local organizations, these grassroots projects are developing educational initiatives that seek to instill a more accurate and nuanced understanding of African American history.
One of the most popular initiatives is the “History Tour,” which places markers at key historical sites and provides a narrated audio tour. New Orleans’ Congo Square History Tour is an example of this effort. This tour covers the history of Congo Square, located in the Tremé neighborhood, where Blacks were allowed to congregate and enjoy all forms of entertainment during the 18th and 19th centuries.
Other initiatives such as the “Citizen Historians” project, led by the National Museum of African American History & Culture, are helping local communities to unearth previously unknown aspects of Black history. The aim is to raise awareness of the intricate relationships between African Americans, both past and present. Through field trips, research projects, and virtual gathering spaces, Citizen Historians are able to assess the impact of People of Color on their neighborhoods.
Many of these initiatives provide hands-on opportunities for the community to become part of the narrative, such as public oratory contests, or the “Raise the Vote” project in the South. Additionally, lectures, performances, and art exhibitions are being held in an effort to engage and connect the public with African American history.
Overall, these grassroots projects are successfully raising awareness and creating more opportunities to critically examine Black history. By doing so, they are also creating a sense of pride and ownership of African American culture. These efforts are teaching people to celebrate the stories and contributions of African Americans, and, in doing so, inspiring future generations to create a safer, more equitable world for everyone.
