Black History is American History - Our Activities!

Black History is American History - It's More than a Month!

Friends of the Children-Portland is grateful for the variety of opportunities to celebrate Black History, amplify voices, and grow with our youth. The month of February offered multiple experiences for our youth to join and a few for the adults supporting our community. We are deeply thankful for our community leaders who connect and empower creativity and arts. Connection with each other, while growing together, forms powerful relationships.

• The Quilting Tradition in Black American Life
  Youth received supplies and had the opportunity to create small quilt-like squares during Spark Squads. They learned about pivotal voices of quilting artists Harriet Powers, Faith Ringgold, Beverly Y. Smith, Bisa Butler, and Sherry Shine. Youth learned how quilting can share a story, empower a voice, and reflect the artist’s vision. Throughout the year youth can add to this growing project and will be encouraged to use this activity as a form of self-expression.
• Reading & Discussion of Literature, I Am Enough
  Our Board of Director member, Pleschette Fontenet, will read the book I Am Enough with K-5th kids. Each youth who attends will receive a copy of the book and discuss the importance of self-worth, self-love and being Enough.

• Screening & Discussion of With Drawn Arms
  One of our Senior youth will host a virtual viewing for peers to watch the documentary, With Drawn Arms. This documentary uncovers the story behind the critical moment in American history at the 1968 Summer Olympics when the world watched as two American runners, Tommie Smith and John Carlos, raised their fists in a symbol of black struggle and solidarity. All participants will have the opportunity to review and discuss the movie.
• Multi-Event Dates with Javalin Hardy & Multnomah County Library*
  Javalin Hardy will facilitate multiple events starting with The History of African Storytelling. Participants explored the history of traditional African storytelling, lessons behind the stories, and are given the opportunity to share their own history. Javalin also offers a two-part session, Black Queen You are Beautiful, for grade school - young college students to join an interactive educational support group empowering African American and African girls struggling with low self-esteem and depression.
• Virtual Presentation & Discussion with Dr. Tisha Anyanike, MD
  Dr. Tisha Anyanike, MD, a Family Medicine Specialist in Missouri who has over 19 years of experience in the medical field, shares her journey in medicine and becoming a doctor with over 19 years of experience in the field. Youth also had the opportunity to ask Dr. Anyanike healthcare questions.
• Creative Cooking Workshop with Trecia Green
  Culinary Artist Trecia Green, founder of Trecie’s Treats in Dallas-Fort Worth, led an interactive culinary activity with our youth. Youth were provided cupcakes, a decorating kit and apron to participate in a demonstration with Trecie.
• Virtual Workshop & Discussion with Cher’e Nichole Nickerson
  Cher’e Nichole Nickerson, a licensed Hair Stylist, Cosmetologist, Salon Manager, Educator, and Entrepreneur, hosted a workshop giving youth the opportunity to ask a variety of questions ranging from hair styles to cosmetic tips to business management.
  

• Hosted Viewing of The Pushout: The Criminalization of Black Girls in School
  Our Friend Carliss, is hosting a viewing of The Pushout: The Criminalization of Black Girls in School. This is for all adults, parents, educators, and anyone working with and advocating for raising Black girls. Following the film there will be a paneled discussion with Black therapists and a live Q&A.
• Dreaming Justice Event with Renée Watson & Oregon Episcopal School*
  NY Times Bestselling author, educator, and activist Renée Watson will read from her work and give a short talk about how her personal experiences growing up in the Pacific Northwest inspire her writing. This event will be moderated by social justice educator Cierra Kaler-Jones.

*These events are partnered w/ Mult. Co. Library and Oregon Episcopal School.