What can you do to recognize Black History Month? We’ve compiled events and learning resources for you to learn more about Black history in Maine.
Events:
Cross Cultural Community Services: 4th Annual Black History Month Community Wellness Fair
Thursday, February 29th | 9:00 AM - 3:15 PM | Gateway Community Services in Portland
Friday, March 1st | 9:00 -3:15 | The Royal Oak Room in Lewiston
Enjoy a panel discussion from afield of experts on topics such as Mental Health + Race, Hope + Joym Trauma and Greift and Substance Use. Learn More Here.
Activities:
Portland By the Foot
Portland by the Foot is hosting a Black History Walking Tour through Portland’s Old Port, waterfront, and East End. The tour is 1.5 miles, 2 hours, and $42. You will learn about sites of significance throughout Portland as it pertains to the history of Black Portlanders. Read more here.
Portland Freedom Trail
If you’re more interested in a self-guided, free, walking tour, you can access this map and information regarding the Portland Freedom Trail. Maine was a portion of the Underground Railroad getting enslaved people from Kentucky to Canada, often stopping in Portland before heading north to Brunswick Topsham, Augusta, Bangor, or Brewer. The Portland Freedom Tour is a self-guided walking tour taking you through influential sites. The Meetinghouse and 44 Exchange Street are 2 of the better-known stops on the trail. Read more here.
Online:
Yarmouth Historical Society
Historian Bob Greene recorded this lecture for the History Center about Maine’s Black history with a particular focus on Yarmouth. View the lecture here.
Greater Portland Landmarks -9 Ways to Learn about Black History in Maine
Learn about the vibrant community of Munjoy Hill, the Black Guards of Maine, the Abyssinian Meeting House, and more!
55 Black History Videos Everyone Should Watch
A great resource for all agents looking to learn more but especially great for students (all grade levels). Learn More Here.
Additional Resources:
Black Owned Maine
Visit this site for a list of black-owned businesses in Maine to support and check out: https://www.blackownedmaine.com/
Indigo Arts Alliance, Portland
Learn more about this non-profit artist residency and incubator that seeks to promote the artistic development of Black and Brown artists. They host frequent events and encourage relationships with the community. Read more here: https://indigoartsalliance.me/
What to Read:
For Kids:
I am Every Good Thing - Derrick Branes; illustrated by Gordon C. James
Black Boy Joy - edited by Kwame Mbailia, stories by B.B. Alston (and 16 others)
Black is a Rainbow Color - Written by Angela Joy; illustrated by Ekua Holmes
For Adults:
Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption - Bryan Stevenson
Now is the Time to Offer Solidarity and Support to Young People of Color - The Chronicle of Evidence-Based Mentoring
Stamped from the Beginning: The Definitive History of Racist Ideas in America - Ibram Kendi
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