Daily Local News (West Chester, PA)
Downingtown Area schools celebrate Black History Month
DOWNINGTOWN » With a new director of diversity, equity and inclusion, a committed Cultural Equity Task Force and a school community excited to learn and grow in the area of equity, Downingtown Area School District is looking forward to this year’s Black History Month celebrations.
Black History Month is the recognition and celebration of the successes and contributions of African Americans. The person credited for the creation of celebration is Carter G. Woodson. Black History Month was officially recognized in 1976 by Gerald Ford. Canada and the United Kingdom also celebrate. Today, we celebrate the past contributions, the present accolades and amazing future possibilities of Black people.
The district’s newest addition, director of diversity, equity and inclusion Justin Brown, explained the timeliness of this celebration.
“Last year, our country experienced a racial awakening after the killing of George Floyd,” Brown said. “While the country acknowledges February as the time to highlight the accomplishments of our Black leaders, Black history is made and celebrated throughout the entire year. DASD is committed to bringing together our community and ensuring a racially equitable learning environment for the entire district.”
Throughout February, DASD students and staff will participate in Black history activities, ranging from studying prominent AfricanAmerican figures, reading literary works from famous authors and participating in songs, dance and poetry.
The district’s Cultural Equity Task Force will invite teachers, staff, community members and alumni to come together to share their stories. Through these conversations, the district hopes to better understand its school communities’ truths.
Brown plans to advance the district’s diversity, equity and inclusion objectives, adding, “I am proud to lead Downingtown’s commitment to educational equity and ensure that the learning and working environment in the DASD is welcoming, accessible and affirming of all identities and lived experiences. In addition to Black history, DASD plans to celebrate other identities and provide similar initiatives and activities for these groups throughout the year.”
There are also numerous community activities scheduled this month within the greater Downingtown area. Check your local listings for events and programming. To learn more about DASD’s diversity, equity and inclusion program, visit www. dasd.org/diversity.