Celebrating Black History Month: African Americans and Labor

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As we honor Black History Month this February, we recognize the 2025 theme: African Americans and Labor. This theme highlights the profound impact of Black workers—whether free or unfree, skilled or unskilled, vocational or voluntary—on history, culture, and social change. From the agricultural labor of enslaved Africans to debates among Black educators on vocational training, from entrepreneurship to labor organizing, the contributions of African Americans have been transformational.

At the UWSP Main Campus Library, we’re celebrating with a featured display (CCC 130) showcasing books about African Americans and labor, as well as works by Black authors, highlighting the essential roles Black workers have played throughout history.

Beyond the display, we invite you to explore our e-resources, including:
📖 Black History Month Research Guide
📚 JSTOR Editors’ Picks
🎬 Films on Demand Curated Collection
📺 Kanopy Streaming Videos – BHM Collection

Later this month, stay tuned for a special blog post by University Archives Assistant Shane Olsen, who will review Hammer and Hoe: Alabama Communists During the Great Depression by Robin D.G. Kelley. This book sheds light on the little-known history of African American workers organizing unions in Jim Crow-era Alabama, offering a crucial perspective on Black labor history.

We encourage you to explore these resources and join us in recognizing the lasting contributions of Black laborers, activists, and organizers.

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