The month of February is Black History Month in the United States.
This is a time for African-Americans to celebrate their achievements and role within the U.S.
Studying Black History is an important part of your education because it provides historical context for the journey of African-Americans while also highlighting the problems they still face today.
Below, you will find a list of prompts that will help improve your writing skills as well as gain a deeper understanding of Black history.
Using This Guide
First and foremost, it’s important to research your topic when writing about historical events or holidays.
Once you’ve done that, you can use these prompts however you’d like.
But if you’re unsure of just how to get started, here is a list of creative ways that you can use this guide:
- Pick a random number and use that prompt.
- Choose a topic you’re unsure about. Research it, and then write about it.
- Ask a friend or family member to pick a prompt for you.
Time to Pick a Prompt
- Why is George Washington Carver an important figure in Black history?
- Do you think schools should teach more Black history?
- One way that I can help prevent discrimination is…
- Pick a Black woman in history, and write a few paragraphs about her.
- Who is your favorite Black musician? Why?
- Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I have a dream” speech is arguably his most notable speech. What is your dream for the world?
- If you could interview one influential Black person, who would it be? What would you ask them?
- Name two inventions created by Black Americans. How are they significant in your life today?
- What do you think a world without racism could look like?
- Who is your favorite Black actor? Why?
- Research a Black poet, and write about what your favorite poem means to you.
- How did the Civil Rights Movement change the world?
- Why do we celebrate Black history?
- How would you feel if you weren’t allowed to go to the same places or use the same things as your friend?
- What would you have done to help Harriet Tubman?
- Why do you think it took so long for the U.S. to have a Black president?
- Describe racism in your own words.
- Write a poem about racial injustice.
- What are some creative ways your class or school could celebrate Black History Month?
- Who is your favorite Black athlete? Why?
- What inspires you to be a better person?
- Why was Rosa Parks an influential person in American History?
- Pick a local Black-owned business, and write an advertisement for them.
- Write a few paragraphs about why the Black Lives Matter movement is an important step toward equality.
- Write about a time when you were treated unfairly for something that is out of your control. How did you feel?
- Does your family talk about racism?
- What is the most important thing you’ve learned during Black History Month?
- What do you think it would have been like to be at the Emancipation Proclamation speech?
- In what ways do you think the media incorrectly depicts Black Americans?
- Research Ruth Lloyd, and write 3-4 paragraphs about what you’ve learned.
- Write a poem about segregation.
- Research the Harlem Renaissance. What do you think is the most important cultural contribution to come from it?
- Write 3-4 paragraphs about the significance of Kamala Harris as the Vice President.
- Read a book with a Black main character and write a review about it.
- Do you think civil disobedience is ever okay?
- How has life for Black Americans changed in the last 10 years? 15 years? 30 years?
- Pick a historical park or monument that commemorates Black history, and write a few paragraphs about its significance.
- Who is one prominent figure in Black history that you think everyone should know about?
- Click here and read about an important person in Black history. What are some ways their impact can be seen today?
- Why was February chosen for Black History Month?
- Who is your favorite Black author? Why?
- Besides Black History Month, is one way that the U.S. celebrates Black history?
- Who do you think is the most influential person in Black history? Why?
What’s Next?
If you enjoyed these writing prompts and want to try more, we’ve got you covered!
We also have resources for teachers and parents, covering a multitude of subjects.
If you are looking for a particular subject and can’t find it, let us know – there’s every chance we’ll be inspired to create what you’re looking for!
We’d love to hear from you.
