Multimedia

Teaching Black History, Meaningfully

January 2023 | National Education Association

This podcast from the National Education Association (NEA) shares a discussion about how Black History Month is traditionally approached in schools and ways that educators can improve and deepen that approach. Guest Kevin Adams, a social studies teacher in Denver, CO, shares how his school makes an intentional effort to celebrate the month with the entire community. Adams explains that they intentionally introduce lesser-known individuals and raise awareness of the contributions of Black artists, scientists, and mathematicians, as well as Black culture. Adams points out that teachers need to be educated beyond their own cultures and should not expect Black students to be the ones who teach Black history. He also discusses the Black Lives Matter movement and school curriculum and recommends educators create space and give trigger warnings when addressing real world issues.