It's officially Black History Month: a time to recognize the struggles, achievements, and contributions of Black Americans. Here are 11+ ways that Ashevillians can get involved locally, all month long.

Brush up on your history

The Hood Huggers Tour and self-guided Historic James Vester Miller Trail both offer important glimpses into the story of Black Asheville. The Buncombe County Public Library system has also published a schedule of special events, along with a Black Legacy Month Reading List.

Noir Collective is a Black-owned boutique and art gallery. | Photo via @noircollective

Connect with community

From spoken word performances and pie baking to a garden work day, there's plenty of ways to honor Black history with our community.

RAISING BLACK| Thursday, Feb. 9 | 7-9 p.m. | Story Parlor, 227 Haywood Rd., Asheville | $15 | A collection of poetry, skits, and monologues from Penny Meacham that explores themes of resiliency and hope.
Hidden In Plain Sight | Saturday, Feb. 11 | 2 p.m. | Black Wall Street , 8 River Arts Pl., Asheville | Free | Community elders will share struggles and triumphs of Asheville's Black community.
Soul Food Supper | Thursday, Feb. 23 | 6-8 p.m. | Stephens-Lee Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave., Asheville | Free | Indulge in down-home cooking like fried chicken, black-eyed peas, and sweet potato pie.

See a full list of Black History Month events via our calendar.

Local biz Chill Cereal Bar does catering for events around town. | Photo by @chillcerealbar

Support Black-owned businesses

By our count, the Asheville area has at least 85+ Black-owned businesses. Our directory includes everything from childcare and hospitality to financial services. Notice a business is missing from the list? Let us know and we'll add it.

J Hackett and Bruce Waller, founders of Black Wall Street AVL. | Photo by AVLtoday

Donate to these organizations

Help the YMI Cultural Center with its capital fundraising campaign.
Support the vision of West Asheville's Peace Gardens via Patreon.
Contribute to Black Wall Street's mission of growing and expanding Black businesses, owners, and networks.
Give to Southside Community Farm's campaign for Black food sovereignty.