As a mother who relies heavily on Target for everything from baby essentials to snacks, I can confidently say this store is our household’s lifeline. Not only does it provide the necessities, but it also surprises us with things we didn’t even know we needed.
Once again, Target is capturing hearts online with its latest initiative: the launch of in-store displays and a dedicated webpage for Black History Month (BHM). The array of products includes clothing for all ages, books, music, toys, journals, and beauty items that my family is absolutely loving.
For over a decade, we’ve made celebrating Black History Month a family tradition, starting when our eldest was just a baby. As a multiracial family formed through adoption, my husband and I embraced this month as a vital part of our family’s identity. However, we quickly realized that our black children—four in total—are not just black for 28 (or this year, 29) days in February. Their heritage is significant every single day, which is why I was thrilled to see Target’s slogan: celebrating black history all year long.
Target has been creating special merchandise, mostly graphic tees and hoodies, to honor Black History Month for several years now. This year, however, marks the first time they’ve launched a webpage solely dedicated to celebrating black culture. Among the featured stories are those of two inspiring black, female creators: Lisa Green from The Color Collective and Tara John from Natural Essence.
The new collection includes vibrant graphic tees, sweatshirts, and dresses that are not only stylish but also meaningful. We particularly adore a colorful shirt that honors eight black inventors and another that showcases nine prominent figures in black history, such as Harriet Tubman and Langston Hughes. Other items incorporate beloved characters from Black Panther and empowering phrases like “beauty in every shade” and “black is beautiful.” These straightforward messages serve as powerful reminders of the importance of black identity.
Many have questioned the necessity of Black History Month, and I often explain that for too long, history has been predominantly represented from a white perspective, leading to a lack of understanding about the significance of black history in our nation. While much of this history is painful, it is also filled with stories of resilience and triumph.
We cannot change what we do not acknowledge. For instance, Target offers a baby onesie that lists the names of Martin, Maya, Harriet, Malcolm, and Frederick. Can you name their last names and contributions without looking them up? Remember, black history is a crucial part of human history that deserves recognition and respect.
Some people argue that children don’t notice color, but I wholeheartedly disagree. My kids have always recognized their unique skin tones and enjoy seeing others who share their heritage. I will never forget when my oldest exclaimed, “Mom, that lady has hair like mine!” This sense of belonging is vital, and while buying products that celebrate black culture is important, it’s only a piece of a much larger puzzle.
What is the Bigger Picture?
My children are surrounded by real-life role models, including friends, family, and mentors who empower them to feel confident and beautiful in their skin.
As parents of black children, we must actively work to uplift them. The world often tries to undermine their worth through systemic racism and stereotypes, so we must combat that by encouraging their self-esteem and pride. This can be through small gestures, such as wearing empowering hoodies or reading uplifting books, but also through meaningful relationships with mentors and the community.
My hope is that as the years progress, more companies step up like Target to foster a culture that acknowledges and celebrates black history. For too long, this vital history was overlooked. Having one of the nation’s most beloved retailers honor black history and culture is a significant step forward, and my family wholeheartedly supports it. What about yours?
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In summary, Target’s commitment to celebrating Black History Month has resonated deeply with my multiracial family. Their focus on year-round recognition of black culture through meaningful merchandise is a welcome initiative that fosters pride and awareness.