Black History Month provides a thought-provoking opportunity for NEHS student members and chapters to recognize and amplify Black voices, literature, and contributions to culture. By participating in the African American Read-In (AARI) and the Read in Color program, NEHS chapters and students can engage in meaningful conversations while promoting literacy and inclusivity throughout their school and wider communities.
What is the African American Read-In?
The African American Read-In (AARI), established by NEHS partner the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE), is a nationwide initiative that encourages individuals and groups to read works by African American authors during Black History Month. Since 1990, the AARI has reached millions of participants, fostering a love of reading and a greater understanding of African American culture.
Ways in which you could participate:
- Organize a reading event: Host a gathering where students, faculty, and community members read aloud from books, poems, or speeches by African American writers past and present. Check out the Read-In Toolkit and add your event to the calendar.
- Collaborate with local schools or libraries: Partner with other organizations to reach a wider audience and create a dynamic, shared experience.
- Incorporate creative elements into classes and chapter activities: Include discussions, music, or art inspired by the readings to deepen the connection with the texts.
What is the Read in Color Program?
The Read in Color program, created by NEHS partner organization Little Free Library, distributes books that reflect diverse perspectives, including stories by and about Black authors and characters. By making diverse books more accessible, the program helps foster empathy, understanding, and a sense of belonging.
How you can get involved:
- Stock Little Free Libraries: Gather books by Black authors to place in Little Free Libraries within your community. Search for libraries that use the Read in Color Indicator to let you know that diverse books are available.
- Create your own Little Free Library: Establish an NEHS Little Free Library in a high-traffic area and dedicate it to diverse voices, ensuring that books by Black authors are prominently featured. You can use the Read in Color Indicator to show the world that your library contains diverse texts.
- Host a book drive: Collect donations of diverse books and distribute them to schools, libraries, or community centers.
- Sign the Read in Color Pledge indicating your commitment to read and share diverse books that amplify marginalized voices.
- Volunteer with Little Free Library by joining Team LFL to promote book access within your community.
The Importance of Your Participation
By engaging in these initiatives, NEHS student members and chapters can:
- Promote representation and equity: Highlighting literature by Black authors ensures that members of your community will encounter stories that reflect a wide range of experiences and perspectives.
- Encourage community engagement: Both programs provide opportunities to collaborate with local organizations, schools, and families.
- Inspire current and future readers: Celebrating diverse voices empowers students to explore and appreciate literature that resonates with their own lives and broadens their horizons.
By participating in the African American Read-In and Read in Color program, NEHS student members and chapters can make a meaningful contribution to Black History Month while inspiring a love for diverse literature. More than ever, this is the time to come together to celebrate the power of words and stories and to honor the voices that shape our world.
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