October 5, 2024 • 9 mins
50 Journal Prompts For Black History Month
Can you imagine a world without Garrett Morgan's traffic light? In this episode, we promise you'll gain new insights on how journaling can transform your engagement with Black History Month. We explore how a website selling journals offers 50 compelling prompts that connect historical events to our personal lives. From considering ways to support Black-owned businesses to writing poems and creating playlists inspired by Black artists, these prompts push us to think critically and take meaningful action. We delve into how creativity can deepen our understanding of history, underscoring that Black history is an integral part of American history. Join us as we emphasize the ongoing struggle for justice and equality, encouraging you to see yourself as an active participant in shaping a better future.
We shift our focus from reflection to action, highlighting the importance of supporting Black-owned businesses, seeking out diverse media voices, and educating ourselves on social justice issues. By engaging in dialogues and challenging our biases, we can create a ripple effect that leads to collective action. We draw parallels between the resilience of Black America and current efforts to promote equity, emphasizing that Black history is a living part of our national fabric. As we conclude, we invite you to reflect on your role in this journey beyond Black History Month. How can you use your voice and actions to foster a more just world? Let's work together to build bridges, engage in tough conversations, and commit to long-term change for a more equitable society.
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50 Journal Prompts For Black History Month
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Okay, so ready for a deep dive?
To me, we're looking atsomething a little different, a
website that sells journals.
Speaker 2 (00:06):
Okay.
Speaker 1 (00:07):
Now, before you think we're about to get all
stationary obsessed, it's thecontent on this site that got my
eye.
Okay, they have this article 50Journal Prompts for People
Writing on Black History Monthand it really got me thinking
about how.
You know, we tend to approachBlack History Month kind of the
same way every year right, thebig names, the key events, right
(00:28):
.
But this article it flips thescript.
It's like, yeah, know thehistory, but then really think
about it.
How does it connect to you?
Speaker 2 (00:36):
Yeah, it's really interesting how they use
journaling something so personalas a way to explore these
bigger historical themes, rightLike it's one thing to memorize
names and dates, it's another toconnect with history on a
personal level.
Speaker 1 (00:48):
Exactly, and they give you some really specific
prompts to get you thinking.
There's one, for example, thatasks you to imagine a world
without Garrett Morgan's trafficlight.
Speaker 2 (00:58):
Oh, wow.
Speaker 1 (00:59):
And it's like, yeah, we see traffic lights every day,
but can you imagine the chaoswithout them, the accidents?
It makes you appreciate theimpact of his invention in a
whole new way.
Speaker 2 (01:09):
It really underscores the importance of understanding
historical context, doesn't itCause and effect long-term
consequences?
It's not just about knowingwhat happened, but why it
matters.
Speaker 1 (01:21):
It's like that saying history doesn't repeat, but it
often rhymes.
Speaker 2 (01:24):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (01:27):
This article really makes you see those echoes of
the past and the present.
Speaker 2 (01:29):
You know it does and you know it's interesting.
This approach actually alignswith a lot of modern educational
trends, moving away from rotememorization and towards this
kind of critical engagement withhistory.
Speaker 1 (01:38):
Totally.
It's about making thoseconnections between then and now
, and it goes beyond justreflection too.
Some of these prompts reallypush you to take action.
Yeah, like one asks how can yousupport black-owned businesses?
Another one challenges you todesign a Black History Month
celebration that's trulyinclusive of all communities.
Speaker 2 (01:58):
I like that.
Speaker 1 (01:59):
It's about recognizing that black history
isn't just something we learnabout for a month.
Speaker 2 (02:03):
It's woven into the very fabric of American history,
you know absolutely, and thatunderstanding the fight for
civil rights, for equality, it'san ongoing story and it's
something that affects all of us.
Speaker 1 (02:15):
It's recognizing that the fight for justice isn't a
spectator sport.
It demands participation.
Speaker 2 (02:21):
Right, and I think that's where these prompts
become really powerful, becausethey highlight these issues
Racial justice, economic equity,representation.
These are issues we'regrappling with every day, right.
Speaker 1 (02:31):
Every single day.
Speaker 2 (02:32):
It's about recognizing that history is
alive, it's evolving and we allhave a part to play in shaping
the next chapter.
Speaker 1 (02:40):
And you know, we've talked about reflecting on
history, taking action.
But this website, it takesthings even further.
It recognizes the power ofcreativity in all of this.
Oh, interesting yeah they haveprompts that encourage artistic
expressions like writing poems,designing posters, even like
making playlists inspired byblack artists.
Speaker 2 (02:59):
I like that.
Speaker 1 (03:00):
Because, you know, art has this unique ability to
communicate these complexemotions.
It can help bridge culturaldivides and sometimes even
inspire empathy and action in away that just talking about
these issues can't always do.
Speaker 2 (03:12):
Right.
It allows people to tap into ashared humanity right to connect
on a deeper level.
Speaker 1 (03:18):
Exactly.
Think about the impact of asong like we Shall Overcome
during the civil rights movement, or how Maya Angelou's poetry
still resonates with peopletoday.
Speaker 2 (03:27):
Powerful examples.
Speaker 1 (03:28):
It's not just about the facts.
It's about engaging your wholeself, your intellect, your
emotions, your creativity, andsometimes that's what it takes
to spark real understanding andchange.
Speaker 2 (03:40):
It's about seeing yourself as part of the story,
not just a passive observer.
Speaker 1 (03:44):
Right, exactly.
History isn't just something inthe past, it's a living,
breathing narrative and we allhave a hand in writing the next
chapter Exactly.
And some of these promptsreally highlight that, like
there's one that asks how doescelebrating Black History Month
help us understand Americabetter Not just black America,
but the nation as a whole?
Speaker 2 (04:02):
It's a great question because it shows how
interconnected everything isRight, Like when we learn about
black history, the fight forequality, the contributions to
our culture.
It deepens our understanding of, well, all of American history.
Speaker 1 (04:16):
Exactly, it's like that, saying a rising tide lifts
all boats.
You know, when we work towardsjustice for one group, it makes
society more just for everyone.
Speaker 2 (04:26):
Right, it's not just about the past.
It's about creating a betterfuture.
Speaker 1 (04:29):
Which makes sense.
Speaker 2 (04:30):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (04:31):
But how do we take these reflections beyond?
You know, february, like thesejournal prompts are great.
But how do we turn thosethoughts into action?
Speaker 2 (04:39):
That's the big question, isn't it?
And there's no easy answer, butI think it starts with
recognizing that this is a longgame.
It's about making these ideaspart of our lives, you know, not
just something we think aboutfor one month.
Speaker 1 (04:50):
So it's about making conscious choices every day in
what we support, how we interactwith others, and making sure
those choices align with.
You know the things we've beenreflecting on.
Speaker 2 (04:59):
Exactly Supporting Black-owned businesses, seeking
out diverse voices in the media,educating ourselves on these
issues of social justice it alladds up.
Speaker 1 (05:08):
And even just like talking about these issues right
, having conversations withfriends, family, coworkers,
sharing what we're learning andmaybe even challenging ourselves
, challenging our own biases.
Speaker 2 (05:19):
Absolutely Don't underestimate the power of
dialogue is how we create real,lasting change.
One person's actions caninspire another and then another
.
It creates this ripple effect.
Speaker 1 (05:29):
That ripple effect, that idea of collective action,
that's what I find so inspiring.
It's like giving individualsthe power to create change, and
not just in their own lives, butin their communities.
Speaker 2 (05:38):
And in the end, isn't that how we shape history?
By taking these small everydayactions, actions that might
seemant on their own, buttogether they become something
much bigger.
Speaker 1 (05:50):
It's that collective power that's behind so much of
the progress that's been made.
Think about the journey ofblack America from the
Underground Railroad to thecivil rights movement.
It's a story of incredibleresilience, determination, this
unyielding hope, and it all camefrom people coming together
demanding something better.
Speaker 2 (06:08):
That's what I think is so effective about this
WebSense approach they blendeducation, reflection and action
into this package that's bothdeeply personal but also has
this potential to create realchange.
Speaker 1 (06:19):
Totally.
It reminds me of that quote.
Never doubt that a small groupof thoughtful, committed
citizens can change the world.
Indeed, it's the only thingthat ever has, Margaret Mead.
Speaker 2 (06:28):
A good reminder that we all have a part to play in
making the world a better place,and sometimes the biggest
changes come from the smallestactions.
Speaker 1 (06:36):
I completely agree.
So if you're listening andthinking like, where do I even
start, just remember everyjourney begins with a single
step.
Speaker 2 (06:45):
Exactly.
Maybe you choose one of thosejournal prompts and really dig
into it, or you start aconversation with someone who
has a different perspective thanyour own.
You support a cause thatresonates with you.
Every little thing matters.
Speaker 1 (06:57):
What really speaks to me is this idea that black
history isn't just something wepull out in February.
Speaker 2 (07:03):
Right.
Speaker 1 (07:03):
It's not static, it's not confined to a textbook.
It's a living, breathing partof who we are as a nation.
It's woven into everything.
Speaker 2 (07:10):
It is, and as we continue to learn and grow, it's
important to approach all ofthis with open hearts, open
minds and a commitment to makingthe world a more just and
equitable place for everyone.
Speaker 1 (07:21):
Couldn't have said it better myself.
So, as we wrap up this deepdive, I have one last
thought-provoking question foryou.
What will you carry forwardfrom Black History Month?
How will you use your voice,your actions, your creativity to
help make the world a better,more just place?
Speaker 2 (07:40):
Keep those journals handy, folks, because this
conversation isn't over.
Speaker 1 (07:44):
It really makes you think about.
You know the power ofindividual stories right, like
how each person's experiencecontributes to this larger
narrative.
Speaker 2 (07:52):
Exactly, and how those individual stories can
inspire us to take action tomake a difference.
Speaker 1 (07:57):
It's like what can seem like a small act on its own
, like writing in a journal, canactually be a step towards
something much bigger.
Speaker 2 (08:03):
Absolutely.
It can be a catalyst forself-reflection, for starting
conversations, for, you know,planting the seeds of change.
Speaker 1 (08:10):
And speaking of change, I think it's important
to acknowledge that progressisn't always linear.
There are going to be setbacks,there are going to be
challenges along the way.
Speaker 2 (08:18):
That's true, but I think that's where resilience
comes in the ability to keeplearning, keep growing, keep
pushing forward even when thingsget tough.
Speaker 1 (08:26):
It's about having that long-term vision right,
that commitment to creating abetter future, even if we don't
see the results immediately.
Speaker 2 (08:33):
Exactly, and remembering that we're all in
this together.
Speaker 1 (08:37):
It's about building bridges, having those sometimes
difficult conversations andworking collaboratively towards
a more just and equitable world.
Speaker 2 (08:46):
Well said.
And you know, as we wrap up, Ikeep coming back to this idea of
personal responsibility, Likeit's easy to feel overwhelmed by
the scale of the challenges weface, but at the end of the day,
it's up to each of us to decidewhat kind of impact we want to
have.
Speaker 1 (09:01):
It's about recognizing that we all have a
role to play in shaping thefuture.
Speaker 2 (09:05):
Exactly.
Speaker 1 (09:06):
So, as we close out this deep dive, I want to leave
you with this yeah, what willyour role be?
How will you use this moment,this opportunity, to create
positive change in your own lifeand in the world around?
Speaker 2 (09:18):
you Think about it, folks, and let's keep the
conversation going.
Okay, so ready for a deep dive?
To me, we're looking atsomething a little different, a
website that sells journals.
Speaker 2 (00:06):
Okay.
Speaker 1 (00:07):
Now, before you think we're about to get all
stationary obsessed, it's thecontent on this site that got my
eye.
Okay, they have this article 50Journal Prompts for People
Writing on Black History Monthand it really got me thinking
about how.
You know, we tend to approachBlack History Month kind of the
same way every year right, thebig names, the key events, right
(00:28):
.
But this article it flips thescript.
It's like, yeah, know thehistory, but then really think
about it.
How does it connect to you?
Speaker 2 (00:36):
Yeah, it's really interesting how they use
journaling something so personalas a way to explore these
bigger historical themes, rightLike it's one thing to memorize
names and dates, it's another toconnect with history on a
personal level.
Speaker 1 (00:48):
Exactly, and they give you some really specific
prompts to get you thinking.
There's one, for example, thatasks you to imagine a world
without Garrett Morgan's trafficlight.
Speaker 2 (00:58):
Oh, wow.
Speaker 1 (00:59):
And it's like, yeah, we see traffic lights every day,
but can you imagine the chaoswithout them, the accidents?
It makes you appreciate theimpact of his invention in a
whole new way.
Speaker 2 (01:09):
It really underscores the importance of understanding
historical context, doesn't itCause and effect long-term
consequences?
It's not just about knowingwhat happened, but why it
matters.
Speaker 1 (01:21):
It's like that saying history doesn't repeat, but it
often rhymes.
Speaker 2 (01:24):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (01:27):
This article really makes you see those echoes of
the past and the present.
Speaker 2 (01:29):
You know it does and you know it's interesting.
This approach actually alignswith a lot of modern educational
trends, moving away from rotememorization and towards this
kind of critical engagement withhistory.
Speaker 1 (01:38):
Totally.
It's about making thoseconnections between then and now
, and it goes beyond justreflection too.
Some of these prompts reallypush you to take action.
Yeah, like one asks how can yousupport black-owned businesses?
Another one challenges you todesign a Black History Month
celebration that's trulyinclusive of all communities.
Speaker 2 (01:58):
I like that.
Speaker 1 (01:59):
It's about recognizing that black history
isn't just something we learnabout for a month.
Speaker 2 (02:03):
It's woven into the very fabric of American history,
you know absolutely, and thatunderstanding the fight for
civil rights, for equality, it'san ongoing story and it's
something that affects all of us.
Speaker 1 (02:15):
It's recognizing that the fight for justice isn't a
spectator sport.
It demands participation.
Speaker 2 (02:21):
Right, and I think that's where these prompts
become really powerful, becausethey highlight these issues
Racial justice, economic equity,representation.
These are issues we'regrappling with every day, right.
Speaker 1 (02:31):
Every single day.
Speaker 2 (02:32):
It's about recognizing that history is
alive, it's evolving and we allhave a part to play in shaping
the next chapter.
Speaker 1 (02:40):
And you know, we've talked about reflecting on
history, taking action.
But this website, it takesthings even further.
It recognizes the power ofcreativity in all of this.
Oh, interesting yeah they haveprompts that encourage artistic
expressions like writing poems,designing posters, even like
making playlists inspired byblack artists.
Speaker 2 (02:59):
I like that.
Speaker 1 (03:00):
Because, you know, art has this unique ability to
communicate these complexemotions.
It can help bridge culturaldivides and sometimes even
inspire empathy and action in away that just talking about
these issues can't always do.
Speaker 2 (03:12):
Right.
It allows people to tap into ashared humanity right to connect
on a deeper level.
Speaker 1 (03:18):
Exactly.
Think about the impact of asong like we Shall Overcome
during the civil rights movement, or how Maya Angelou's poetry
still resonates with peopletoday.
Speaker 2 (03:27):
Powerful examples.
Speaker 1 (03:28):
It's not just about the facts.
It's about engaging your wholeself, your intellect, your
emotions, your creativity, andsometimes that's what it takes
to spark real understanding andchange.
Speaker 2 (03:40):
It's about seeing yourself as part of the story,
not just a passive observer.
Speaker 1 (03:44):
Right, exactly.
History isn't just something inthe past, it's a living,
breathing narrative and we allhave a hand in writing the next
chapter Exactly.
And some of these promptsreally highlight that, like
there's one that asks how doescelebrating Black History Month
help us understand Americabetter Not just black America,
but the nation as a whole?
Speaker 2 (04:02):
It's a great question because it shows how
interconnected everything isRight, Like when we learn about
black history, the fight forequality, the contributions to
our culture.
It deepens our understanding of, well, all of American history.
Speaker 1 (04:16):
Exactly, it's like that, saying a rising tide lifts
all boats.
You know, when we work towardsjustice for one group, it makes
society more just for everyone.
Speaker 2 (04:26):
Right, it's not just about the past.
It's about creating a betterfuture.
Speaker 1 (04:29):
Which makes sense.
Speaker 2 (04:30):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (04:31):
But how do we take these reflections beyond?
You know, february, like thesejournal prompts are great.
But how do we turn thosethoughts into action?
Speaker 2 (04:39):
That's the big question, isn't it?
And there's no easy answer, butI think it starts with
recognizing that this is a longgame.
It's about making these ideaspart of our lives, you know, not
just something we think aboutfor one month.
Speaker 1 (04:50):
So it's about making conscious choices every day in
what we support, how we interactwith others, and making sure
those choices align with.
You know the things we've beenreflecting on.
Speaker 2 (04:59):
Exactly Supporting Black-owned businesses, seeking
out diverse voices in the media,educating ourselves on these
issues of social justice it alladds up.
Speaker 1 (05:08):
And even just like talking about these issues right
, having conversations withfriends, family, coworkers,
sharing what we're learning andmaybe even challenging ourselves
, challenging our own biases.
Speaker 2 (05:19):
Absolutely Don't underestimate the power of
dialogue is how we create real,lasting change.
One person's actions caninspire another and then another
.
It creates this ripple effect.
Speaker 1 (05:29):
That ripple effect, that idea of collective action,
that's what I find so inspiring.
It's like giving individualsthe power to create change, and
not just in their own lives, butin their communities.
Speaker 2 (05:38):
And in the end, isn't that how we shape history?
By taking these small everydayactions, actions that might
seemant on their own, buttogether they become something
much bigger.
Speaker 1 (05:50):
It's that collective power that's behind so much of
the progress that's been made.
Think about the journey ofblack America from the
Underground Railroad to thecivil rights movement.
It's a story of incredibleresilience, determination, this
unyielding hope, and it all camefrom people coming together
demanding something better.
Speaker 2 (06:08):
That's what I think is so effective about this
WebSense approach they blendeducation, reflection and action
into this package that's bothdeeply personal but also has
this potential to create realchange.
Speaker 1 (06:19):
Totally.
It reminds me of that quote.
Never doubt that a small groupof thoughtful, committed
citizens can change the world.
Indeed, it's the only thingthat ever has, Margaret Mead.
Speaker 2 (06:28):
A good reminder that we all have a part to play in
making the world a better place,and sometimes the biggest
changes come from the smallestactions.
Speaker 1 (06:36):
I completely agree.
So if you're listening andthinking like, where do I even
start, just remember everyjourney begins with a single
step.
Speaker 2 (06:45):
Exactly.
Maybe you choose one of thosejournal prompts and really dig
into it, or you start aconversation with someone who
has a different perspective thanyour own.
You support a cause thatresonates with you.
Every little thing matters.
Speaker 1 (06:57):
What really speaks to me is this idea that black
history isn't just something wepull out in February.
Speaker 2 (07:03):
Right.
Speaker 1 (07:03):
It's not static, it's not confined to a textbook.
It's a living, breathing partof who we are as a nation.
It's woven into everything.
Speaker 2 (07:10):
It is, and as we continue to learn and grow, it's
important to approach all ofthis with open hearts, open
minds and a commitment to makingthe world a more just and
equitable place for everyone.
Speaker 1 (07:21):
Couldn't have said it better myself.
So, as we wrap up this deepdive, I have one last
thought-provoking question foryou.
What will you carry forwardfrom Black History Month?
How will you use your voice,your actions, your creativity to
help make the world a better,more just place?
Speaker 2 (07:40):
Keep those journals handy, folks, because this
conversation isn't over.
Speaker 1 (07:44):
It really makes you think about.
You know the power ofindividual stories right, like
how each person's experiencecontributes to this larger
narrative.
Speaker 2 (07:52):
Exactly, and how those individual stories can
inspire us to take action tomake a difference.
Speaker 1 (07:57):
It's like what can seem like a small act on its own
, like writing in a journal, canactually be a step towards
something much bigger.
Speaker 2 (08:03):
Absolutely.
It can be a catalyst forself-reflection, for starting
conversations, for, you know,planting the seeds of change.
Speaker 1 (08:10):
And speaking of change, I think it's important
to acknowledge that progressisn't always linear.
There are going to be setbacks,there are going to be
challenges along the way.
Speaker 2 (08:18):
That's true, but I think that's where resilience
comes in the ability to keeplearning, keep growing, keep
pushing forward even when thingsget tough.
Speaker 1 (08:26):
It's about having that long-term vision right,
that commitment to creating abetter future, even if we don't
see the results immediately.
Speaker 2 (08:33):
Exactly, and remembering that we're all in
this together.
Speaker 1 (08:37):
It's about building bridges, having those sometimes
difficult conversations andworking collaboratively towards
a more just and equitable world.
Speaker 2 (08:46):
Well said.
And you know, as we wrap up, Ikeep coming back to this idea of
personal responsibility, Likeit's easy to feel overwhelmed by
the scale of the challenges weface, but at the end of the day,
it's up to each of us to decidewhat kind of impact we want to
have.
Speaker 1 (09:01):
It's about recognizing that we all have a
role to play in shaping thefuture.
Speaker 2 (09:05):
Exactly.
Speaker 1 (09:06):
So, as we close out this deep dive, I want to leave
you with this yeah, what willyour role be?
How will you use this moment,this opportunity, to create
positive change in your own lifeand in the world around?
Speaker 2 (09:18):
you Think about it, folks, and let's keep the
conversation going.
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