As we near the end of Black August, it is important to reflect on the lessons we have learned and the momentum we have built. We have come together to remember the sacrifices of our ancestors, to celebrate the heroes of our community, and to learn from the past. Now, it is time to take this knowledge and inspiration into the world and continue the fight for justice and liberation.

✊🏿 Here are some actionable steps you can take to sustain the momentum for change beyond Black August:

• Learn more about Black history and culture. There are many resources available to help you learn more about the rich history and culture of Black people. Read books, watch documentaries, and attend events that celebrate Black history and culture.
• Get involved in your community. There are many ways to get involved in your community and make a difference. Volunteer your time, donate to organizations that are working for justice, and speak out against injustice when you see it.
• Support Black-owned businesses. When you support Black-owned businesses, you are helping to build a stronger and more equitable economy. Make a point of shopping at Black-owned businesses whenever possible.
• Vote. Voting is one of the most important ways to make your voice heard and to create change. Make sure you are registered to vote and that you vote in every election.

By taking these steps, you can help to sustain the momentum for change and build a more just and equitable world.

🏛 In addition to the above, here are some resources that you may find helpful:

• The National Museum of African American History and Culture: This museum is a great place to learn more about Black history and culture.
• The Black Panther Party Archive: This archive contains a wealth of information about the Black Panther Party.
• The National Urban League: This organization works to advance the economic opportunity, social progress, and civil rights of African Americans.
• The NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc.: This organization works to achieve racial justice through litigation, advocacy, and public education.

By learning more about Black history and culture, getting involved in your community, supporting Black-owned businesses, and voting, you can help to sustain the momentum for change and build a more just and equitable world.

Below are some books and documentaries that you may find helpful in learning more about Black history and culture, sustaining the momentum for change, and building a more just and equitable world:

📚 Books:

• The Autobiography of Malcolm X: This book is a classic account of the life of Malcolm X, one of the most important figures in the Black Power movement.
• Ain't I a Woman?: This book is a collection of essays by Black feminist activist and author Bell Hooks.
• Between the World and Me: This book is a powerful and personal essay by Ta-Nehisi Coates about the Black experience in America.
• The Fire Next Time: This book is a collection of essays by James Baldwin, one of the most important writers of the 20th century.

🎥 Documentaries:

• 13th: This documentary explores the history of mass incarceration in the United States, and how it is linked to the legacy of slavery.
• I Am Not Your Negro: This documentary is a look at the life and work of James Baldwin, and his insights into race and racism in America.
• The Black Panthers: Vanguard of the Revolution: This documentary tells the story of the Black Panther Party, and their fight for Black liberation.
• Eyes on the Prize: This documentary series tells the story of the Civil Rights Movement, from the Montgomery Bus Boycott to the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

🛍 Black-Owned Businesses:

• Fé BY JENAI — NYC-based sunglasses company founded by Jada Jenai, a dancer, Bill T. Jones company member, and NYC Dance Church regular.
• WHITESPACE JEWELRY — Modern fine jewelry, elegance and badassery. Founded by Khadijah Lawrence-Fulton, an OG Dance Church Seattle community member, Whitespace is now an LA-based, celebrity wearing company.
• HUE TAP — A dancer founded, elastic athletic adhesive kinesiology tape brand with the mission to produce quality tape products while serving the unique needs of melanated individuals.
• BRANDON BLACKWOOD — NYC based designer Brandon Blackwood is redefining tge “Classic” handbag.
• JAMAICAN HOMESTYLE CUSINE — A four minute walk from SKC PDX in Portland. “Come taste a likkle piece a de island!” after Tuesday night class.