How to Talk About Black History

Black History Month shows up on workplace calendars the way “team culture” does: well-intended, widely discussed, and occasionally mishandled. You might want to say something supportive. You might want to learn. You might also worry you’ll say the wrong thing and turn a meaningful moment into a cringe one.

That tension, good intent, plus fear creates silence. Or worse, it creates the kind of forced conversation that feels like a performance.

This guide is the alternative. It’s a practical, human approach to talking about Black history at work during February (and beyond). You’ll get conversation starters that sound like a person, not a press release. You’ll also get guardrails: what to avoid, how to recover, and how to keep the conversation respectful without making any coworker feel like a spokesperson.