Celebrating Black History Month 2025

Honoring Resilience, Leadership, and Advocacy

Each February, Black History Month offers a vital opportunity to reflect on the contributions, resilience, and triumphs of Black communities throughout history. For FIERCE Advocates, this month is a powerful reminder of the legacy of advocacy and leadership that inspires our mission to empower families and individuals rooted in collective empowerment. As we honor the past, we also recommit ourselves to the ongoing work of creating equitable opportunities and outcomes for youth and families of color.

Uplifting Stories of Advocacy & Leadership

The fight for equity and justice has been shaped by countless Black leaders who have paved the way for progress. Figures like Mary McLeod Bethune, whose advocacy for education transformed opportunities for Black youth, and Bayard Rustin, a champion of civil rights and education reform, remind us of the enduring power of community-centered leadership.

In Contra Costa County, that legacy is carried forward by local leaders and community organizers who tirelessly work to dismantle systemic barriers. From parent advocates pushing for equitable school funding to youth activists addressing racial disparities, their efforts mirror the transformative spirit of historical trailblazers. At FIERCE, we celebrate these individuals while amplifying the voices of parents and caregivers shaping change in our neighborhoods.

FIERCE's Commitment to Advocacy

FIERCE Advocates carries forward the spirit of Black History Month through our commitment to empowering families and youth of color in Contra Costa County. Our initiatives focus on advancing equitable access to education, providing healing-centered care, and fostering leadership development. By equipping parents and caregivers with the tools to advocate for their children and communities, we aim to build a future that honors the struggles and achievements of those who came before us.

Healing-Centered Care & Cultural Resilience

The theme of resilience runs deep in Black history, as individuals and families have drawn strength from cultural traditions, spirituality, and community bonds. For families in Contra Costa County, healing-centered care is a vital aspect of well-being. This Black History Month, we encourage families to explore practices that nurture wellness, such as storytelling, art, and gathering in community spaces to celebrate cultural heritage.

Empowering the Next Generation

Black History Month is also a time to look forward, inspiring the next generation of leaders and change-makers. By centering youth voices and fostering their leadership, we create pathways for children to see themselves as advocates for equity and justice. In our Contra Costa community, parents and caregivers play a crucial role in this journey, and FIERCE is here to support them through resources, training, and opportunities for shared decision-making.

As we celebrate Black History Month, we invite you to take part in this journey with us:

  • Attend local events or activities in Contra Costa County honoring Black history and culture.

  • Share your family’s stories of advocacy and resilience with us to highlight in future newsletters.

  • Explore resources and tools to engage your children in learning about Black history and its relevance today.


Together, we can honor the past, celebrate the present, and build a future rooted in equity and collective empowerment. Let’s make this Black History Month a meaningful time of reflection, connection, and action.

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