Black History Month 2022 focuses on the theme of Black Health and Wellness. Black Americans are twice as likely to not have health insurance and access to quality healthcare. This causes many in Central Texas to develop serious life threatening health conditions such as heart disease, stroke and diabetes, at much younger ages. Health disparities continue to rise, when adding in the lack of treatment for mental health and overall well-being.
Every American should have access to quality and affordable healthcare. That's the driving force of the Austin Area Urban League empowerment pillar for Health and Wellness. Their programs raise awareness about health disparities and help people to quit smoking, enroll in health insurance and make healthier choices. In doing so, they encourage those in Central Texas to take ownership of their health, lifestyle behaviors and health management. Find out more about the Austin Area Urban League and how to help.
Here are ways to celebrate during Black History Month and contribute to the health and well-being of those underserved in Austin and Central Texas.
Giving:
Make a donation to these organizations:
African American Youth Harvest Foundation
Antiracism Arthouse
Austin Area Urban League
Austin Justice Coalition
Be the Bridge
Black Outside
Break The Pipeline / Excellence & Advancement Foundation
Measure Austin
NAACP ATX
Save Muny Lions Municipal Golf Course
Six Square Austin's Black Cultural District
Give Blood - Type O+ is many times the first type of blood to run out during shortages. Around half of the Black population has type O+ blood
The American Red Cross of Central & South Texas
We Are Blood
Events:
Thursday 2/3 - Monday 2/28
RichesArt Gallery is hosting American History, an interactive art exhibit showcasing the Black history that shaped the American experience. The only Black-owned art gallery in Austin brings work from underrepresented communities to the forefront. Featuring the work of 19 local artists.
Saturday 2/5 - reception from 1p-3p / 2511 E 6th Street, Unit A.
Thursday 2/3 & 2/24
Seminary of the Southwest Black History Month Celebration Service (2/3) @ 5:30p / Service at Christ Chapel & dinner will follow.
Seminary of the Southwest 2022 Black History Month Keynote Lecture (2/24) @ 7p / Rev. Dr. Brandon Crowley in Knapp Auditorium & dessert reception will follow. 501 E 32nd St, ATX 78705
Saturday 2/19
Buda Black History Celebration / 10a-2p / Buda Amphitheater & City Park, 100 San Antonio St., Buda, TX 78610 / Facebook
Sunday 2/20
Imagine Muny Concert ft Asleep at the Wheel, Eric Church, Luke Nelson & friends / Doors 8p & Show 9p/ ACL Live @ The Moody Theater 310 Willie Nelson Blvd. ATX 78701
Local Businesses:
DO512 Black-owned businesses to support in Austin
Greater Austin Black Chamber - local black-owned businesses serving the Austin area to support. Food, clothing, health, home, services & more.
Thrillist 15 Black-owned businesses you should get to know in Austin
88+ Austin Black-owned Restaurants & Food Trucks - divided up in areas such as N, S, E & W ATX, Bee Cave, Cedar Park ...