Black History Saturdays is a community-based educational program founded and directed by Kristi Williams. It serves as a vital platform for teaching Black history and culture to people of all ages, from Pre-K students to adults. The program fosters a deeper understanding of historical and contemporary struggles for racial justice, emphasizing meaningful discussions, cultural activities, and historical education.

Why It Was Created

The program was established in response to Oklahoma’s HB 1775, legislation that restricts how Black history is taught in public schools. This law, along with the banning of over 100 books in Oklahoma and other states, has made programs like Black History Saturdays increasingly critical.

Kristi Williams envisioned Black History Saturdays as a way to counteract these restrictions by creating a space for families and educators to learn, share, and teach Black history freely and effectively. The program also provides a safe space for educators to design lessons with autonomy and creativity.

What It Offers

• Cultural Engagement: Participants engage in meaningful discussions, hands-on activities, and cultural programming that highlight Black resilience and contributions.
• Educational Support: Educators are empowered with tools, autonomy, and safe spaces to teach Black history effectively.
• Banned Book Library: The program includes a collection of banned books, ensuring that restricted materials are accessible to the community.
• Community Building: Families learn Black history together, fostering a sense of unity and shared heritage.

Why It Should Be Supported

1. Fills a Critical Gap: With Black history increasingly excluded from public school curriculums, the program ensures that students and adults alike have access to this essential knowledge.
2. Empowers Educators: Teachers receive support and resources to teach Black history, which may otherwise be inaccessible due to legislative restrictions.
3. Fosters Inclusion: Black History Saturdays builds a community around learning, making history accessible for families and individuals from diverse backgrounds.
4. Inspires Careers: Through collaborations with professionals like archaeologists and historians, the program introduces participants to careers in fields like archaeology, history, and storytelling.
5. Sustainability and Growth: Funding allows the program to continue and expand, with goals to include a virtual component so participants worldwide can access Black history education.

Funding Needs

Running the program costs $6,000 per month, covering expenses such as teacher salaries, rental space, meals, and materials. Additional funding will support field trips, events, and a virtual expansion. The program is requesting $100,000 to sustain and enhance its operations.

Supporting Black History Saturdays means investing in a future where Black history is preserved, taught, and celebrated despite legislative challenges. It ensures that Black families, educators, and learners can continue to engage in vital discussions and education that build understanding and resilience.

Website: https://blackhistorysaturdays23.carrd.co

Video: https://youtu.be/JzvFqNUZtdc?si=O0nRnJjZLUtjp46p