A Brilliant & Creative Way To Make Learning Black History Fun For All Ages!
Growing up in the hood and going to public school in the 90’s, learning Black History was kind of boring. I mean, it seemed the only time people spoke of Black History was in February during Black History month, and it seemed like every year we heard the same names; Dr. King, Ida B. Wells, Malcolm X, Rosa Parks, George Washington Carver, Harriet Tubman, and a few others. It also seemed that our history was rooted in slavery and struggle. I didn’t have any interest in learning this stuff. Plus, it was always taught the same way; read some books, watch some videos, and/or listen to some tapes on the radio and then write about it or discuss it in a group setting. That was really boring. I wasn’t alone in this regard. Many of my peers at the time felt the same way.
To many, it would seem as if my generation (I was born in 84') had no care or concern for who we were and where we came from. Speaking for myself, the history that was being taught just didn’t connect. Like, I knew there was something more to us than slavery, and a struggle for basic human and civil rights. It wasn’t until I began to learn my history before slavery that I took a serious interest. When I learned of all the great things we built and created, man, I was no longer consumed with anger, instead I developed a sense of pride. That sense of pride made me want to learn more, and surprisingly enough, that sense of pride made me want to be greater and contribute in some way to our rich history.
This is why the 30 Days of Black Inventions Bingo Game is so important. It showcases our excellence, highlights our greatness and inspires the continued building of an ancient, rich legacy. What Ms. Tamykah Anthony has done in creating this game is establish a unique way for Black children and adults to learn together, have fun together, and ultimately strengthen the bond between families while forging new friendships with strangers. When she first told me what she was working on, I was excited, mainly because a Black Woman I knew was creating something that would positively impact Black children and the Black community as a whole. It wasn’t until actually playing the game in real time, with youth, peers and elders all engrossed, Ms. Anthony calling the clues and leading everyone on, that I fully innerstood the impact this game would have. My 7yr old son, who can be pretty shy and quiet in group settings with strangers, actually volunteered to read one of the answers. The total impact was even greater than that.
Trust me when I tell you, the 30 Days of Black Inventions Bingo Game is a hit! I wholeheartedly believe that this game should be owned by every Black family in America. To own this game for yourself, click the following link: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/30-Days-of-Black-Inventions-PRINTABLE-Bingo-Game-5101567 . The game is only $5 and is easily accessible to you.
To play the game in real time, with the game’s creator, come out tonight to the Queens Public Library Long Island City Branch, located at 37–44 21st. St. The game will take place in the Children’s Craft Room tonight, Thursday, February 20th, from 4–6pm. Join us in not only celebrating Black History, but for fun while learning about us.
