Black History Month in Gaston County: Learn, Celebrate, Support

Black History Month is a time to honor Black excellence, reflect on history, and strengthen our shared commitment to belonging, connection, and community. While Black history deserves recognition year-round, February invites us to pause, learn together, and show up with intention.

At the YMCA, we believe communities grow stronger when everyone feels seen, valued, and supported. This month, we encourage our community to honor Black history through learning, celebration, and connection right here in Gaston County.

Learn and Reflect Locally

The Gaston County Public Library is offering several opportunities to explore Black history and culture this month. One event coming up is Common Threads from the Underground Railroad and the Stories Beyond, a program geared toward school-age students and up, taking place on Saturday, February 7. This program explores powerful stories of resilience, courage, and connection that shaped our shared history.

The library is also hosting an America 250 Historical Fiction Film Series. Running throughout the winter and spring, this eight-part series uses historical fiction to spark conversation and reflection around key moments in American history.

Families can also visit the African American Museum of History & Culture in Gastonia to learn more about local Black history and the individuals who helped shape our community.

The Stowe Family YMCA is also offering a meaningful opportunity to learn together through an Active Older Adults day trip to the International Civil Rights Center & Museum on February 16. In honor of Black History Month, participants will travel to Greensboro, NC, for a guided tour exploring the history and impact of the Civil Rights Movement. Transportation is provided.
Click here for more information.

Celebrate and Support the Community

Black History Month is also a celebration of culture, creativity, and joy. One meaningful way to participate is by supporting Black-owned businesses and organizations in our area, including:

While this list is not exhaustive, these are just a few of the many incredible Black-owned businesses enriching our community that we encourage you to support!

Learning at Home

For families looking to learn together, PBS offers a curated list of Children's Books to Celebrate Black History Month, featuring age-appropriate stories that highlight Black voices, leaders, and experiences. These resources offer meaningful ways to spark conversation and learning at home.

For adults, consider exploring the digital collections of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture or tuning into podcasts like NPR’s Code Switch to hear deep dives into history and contemporary conversations.

Building Community Together

At the Y, we work every day to create welcoming spaces where all people can belong, grow, and thrive. Black History Month reminds us that community is built through shared commitment and care. When we show up for one another, we help create spaces where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Black History Month also provides an opportunity to reflect on the YMCA’s own history and the Black leaders who helped shape the organization we are today. From the establishment of early Black YMCAs to the ongoing work toward equity and inclusion, Black history is deeply woven into the Y’s story. To learn more, we invite you to explore our Black History Month legacy blog and continue the journey of learning and reflection.

Together, we honor Black history not only this month, but every day, as we continue building a stronger, more connected Gaston County for all.