The Origins of Black History Month
February is Black History Month and IDG is taking this opportunity to celebrate, raise awareness of and pursue continual learning of Black history. Black History Month was created by Dr. Carter G. Woodson in 1926 as Negro History week. Dr. Woodson wanted Black people to be proud of their heritage and inspire other Americans to understand it.
How Can You Participate?
In honor of Dr. Woodson’s vision and in observation of Black History Month, the IDG Diversity & Inclusion Council has compiled some resources to help strengthen your knowledge of Black history. From films and TV shows created by and starring Black visionaries to music and literature that highlight Black voices from the past and present, these resources can support you on your journey to learn more about how Black people have shaped history.
- 91 movies and TV shows to stream for Black History Month: A streaming guide to historical fiction, biopics, documentaries, and sitcoms, made by and about Black Americans
- A full range of digital events offered for all ages this February by the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture
- NPR’s celebration of Black History Month, with special programming and episodes this month
- Spotify’s collection, Black History is Now, representing Black musicians, poets, and spoken word artists from the past and present
- The Boston Public Library’s recommended, curated list of books for Black History Month, ranging from poetry to fiction to picture books for adults, teens, and children
- IDG covers news, features, and tips on topics ranging from how top tech companies are addressing diversity and inclusion in the workplace to the growing wave of IT professionals working to eradicate racist language from tech tools
Why It’s Important to Us
As a global organization, IDG has a strong commitment to Diversity & Inclusion. In 2018 IDG formed an internal Diversity & Inclusion Council to serve as an advocate, resource, and facilitator for the company to drive towards increased Diversity & Inclusion. Part of the effort of the Council is to ensure that Diversity & Inclusion is not only indicative of our culture but that it’s in our company’s DNA. We are glad to have a broad representation of Diversity & Inclusion Delegates and Champions globally, who serve on the Council but also recognize that every IDG employee has a role to play in bringing greater awareness, conversation and learning across many Diversity & Inclusion areas.
