Celebrate Black History Month in Milwaukee

Black History Month is a celebration of achievements by African Americans and their role in U.S. history. Each year has a different theme to help guide the discussion, and this year's theme is African Americans and Labor, as stated by ASALH. There are many ways to learn about African American History and celebrate Black History Month. We have created a list of ways for you to learn more this February! Be sure to let us know which ones you have tried or how you celebrate Black History Month on Facebook, Instagram or X.

Learn More Through Conversations

Being able to talk and ask questions is one way that you can learn more about someone else's culture and life experiences. At Potawatomi Casino Hotel, we have a diverse population of team members, all with different backgrounds and experiences. This year, we interviewed various team members for Black History Month. They were asked a series of questions about how they celebrate Black History Month, how their work history shaped who they are, who inspires them, and more. To hear their responses and to learn more about some of our team members, visit our YouTube page here.

Learn About African American History

Black History Month can be the perfect opportunity to learn more about African American History. Below is a list of various locations where you can learn more about African American History.

America’s Black Holocaust Museum – Step into an immersive experience at America's Black Holocaust Museum. This museum is both a historical and memorial museum whose goal is to preserve the history of African Americans. Can't visit it in person? That's OK; they have online versions of their galleries as well. During Black History Month, they will have different activities for you to get involved in, so be sure to check out their website

Wisconsin Black Historical Society & Museum (WBHS/M) – Want to learn more about Wisconsin's African American History? Then, visit the WBHS/M this month to visit one of their many exhibits or take part in one of their events.

Milwaukee Film Club – If movies are more your style, visit our partners at the Milwaukee Film Club this month to watch a well-rounded lineup of Black History films. Selected by Black Lens Programmer Ty Williams, this series showcases the dynamic range of Black stories told through cinema.

Milwaukee Public Museum- Visit our partners at the Milwaukee Public Museum this February to explore the experiences and contributions of Black Americans throughout U.S. History. Check out the MPM's website to see the Bonus Learnings offered during February.

City Of Milwaukee – 28 Days of Black History includes daily features of Black History honorees on the city's main page. You can also find information about the City Hall celebration filled with art, music, food, and guest speakers.

Engage in Black History Month Activities

Throughout the city, local businesses and communities will celebrate Black History Month. We have selected a few activities that you and the whole family can enjoy. What would you add to the list?

Black History Month Kick-Off— Join the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee campus for its annual Black History Month Kickoff on February 4th from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Enjoy vendors, crafts, food, and more while celebrating Black History Month.

MKE Kids – As the name suggests, MKE Kids offers a list of fun and engaging activities for children. From Art at Central Library to Bingo at Mitchell Street Library, there are activities for the whole family to enjoy and learn more about Black History Month.

Paramount Records Trail – It may still be chilly in Wisconsin in February, but that does not mean we can't get outside. Take a short drive to Grafton to walk the Paramount Records Trail and learn about the musicians who influenced American culture and had an enduring effect.  

To stay current on Milwaukee's happenings, visit our partners at VISIT Milwaukee for a list of all events and activities.

Support Local Black-Owned Businesses and Non-profits

Supporting local Black-owned businesses and non-profits could be another way to celebrate Black History Month. By giving back to the community, you are showing your support for its future. We have listed a few businesses and organizations for you to check out.

MKEing Coffee – Serving up hot brews and helping students. MKEing Coffee is partnered with Eastbrook Academy to help students prepare for college and learn life skills. You can order a bag of their signature coffee on their website. Be sure to try their Brew City flavor and support MKE!

Lush Popcorn – Expand your idea of popcorn flavors with Lush Popcorn. Enjoy flavors like Milwaukee Mix, Cookies-N-Cream, and even Maple Bourbon Carmel. This treat will surely make movie night unforgettable.

True Skool – True Skool is a non-profit organization whose mission is to educate, engage, and empower youth and their families through Transformative Creative Arts and Hip-Hop Culture. Their movement offers a new way for youth and families to connect. Visit their website to see how you can get involved. True Skool was one of the 30 charities selected for the 2024 Heart of Canal Street prize. Heart of Canal Street is an annual fundraiser event hosted by Potawatomi Casino Hotel that provides funding to non-profit organizations to help the communities they serve.

Running Rebels – Running Rebels is a mentorship organization that helps Milwaukee youth transition into adulthood through mentoring, positive programming, and community connection. Visit their website to see a full list of their programs and services. Running Rebels was awarded the Heart of Canal Street award in 2008 and in 2017 by Potawatomi Casino Hotel to help bring positive change to the community.

Fruition MKE – Fruition MKE is a co-working space that fosters an innovative and inviting community for creative professionals. You can choose from six different options to utilize the space. Fruition MKE is a place where people can network and grow their businesses and connections in a fun, stress-free environment.

For a complete list of Black-owned businesses, check out MKE Black.

This is just a small sample of ways to celebrate Black History Month and learn more about African American History.  How do you celebrate or recognize Black History Month? Share with us on Facebook, Instagram or X.