Ways to Celebrate Black History Month in a Nursing Home Facility NJ
Since 1976, the United States has distinguished February as Black History month. This is a time of year for Americans to reflect upon the impact African American citizens have had on our county and culture. It is important for nursing home facilities in NJ to reflect upon the contributions African Americans have made and share the historical events with their residents. Below are some suggestions on ways the staff can celebrate Black History Month throughout the month of February at a nursing home facility NJ.
Serve Food Popular to the African American Culture at the Nursing Home Facility NJ
Food popular to the African American culture is also referred to as “soul food” and is still comprises a large percentage of food served in the southern states. Being in a nursing home facility in NJ, many residents do not have access to the delicious “soul food” of the south. Therefore, during the month of February, serve the residents food such as chicken fried steak, black eyed peas, candied yams, and cornbread. For dessert serve sweet potato pie. Popular “soul food” beverages include sweet tea and lemonade. Serving such cultural classics will be a great deviation from the normal diet and since the food is so delicious, it will be received very positively!
Serving delicious food from the African American culture allows for seniors in a nursing home facility NJ to think about Black History Month and celebrate the impact African Americans have had on our country.
Also, to honor the great African American inventor and scientist, George Washington Carver, serve peanuts and peanut butter!
Showcase African Americans of the Arts in the Nursing Home Facility NJ during Black History Month
Set up a special reading section in the nursing home facility NJ displaying the books and poetry of notable Black authors, poets and playwrights, such as Maya Angelou, Nikki Giovanni, W.E. B. Du Bois, August Wilson and Langston Hughes. Schedule a time for a book discussion on books about slavery and the Civil War such as “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” and “Ain’t I a Woman”. These books are crucial pieces to American History and are so emotionally stirring that they make for a great discussion among seniors at a nursing home facility NJ.
Display the artwork of African American artists throughout the nursing home facility NJ for the residents to admire. Some notable artists include John James Audubon, Jacob Lawrence, Edmonia Lewis, and Alma Thomas.
African Americans have also had a huge impact on American cinema and music. Play music from musical legends such as Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding, Louis Armstrong, B.B. King, and Duke Ellington. Since their music is so much fun to dance and sing to, organize a Black History Month themed dance and karaoke event!
Set aside some nights in February that are dedicated to watching films about African American history or starring an African American actor. Some examples of great films to watch in a nursing home facility NJ would be: “Remember the Titans”, “Sister Act”, “Driving Miss Daisy” and “Green Mile”.
