This August Directions will focus on Black life and Black businesses.  August has been designated as Black business month, but just like Black history month, we must celebrate and recognize our Black history and businesses all 12 months in the United States and in the Diaspora. 

​

If you know of a Black owned business, let us know so we can feature it.  Our economic well-being is tied to our mental well-being.

 

Self-care is good mental health.  Get outside and get some sunshine and fun.

​

INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLACK PSYCHOLOGISTS (ABPsi) CONVENTION

The International Association of Black Psychologists (ABPsi) held its 56th Annual International Convention at Bethune-Cookman University, a historically Black institution located in Daytona Beach, Florida, from July 30 to August 3, 2025. This marked a historic first: never before had ABPsi hosted its convention at a Black College or University (BCU). Not only was the event a success in terms of community and scholarship, but for the first time, both ABPsi and Bethune-Cookman University turned a profit. This collaboration proved to be a winning financial model for both institutions.

​

There is speculation that next year’s convention will take place at Morgan State University in Maryland. The theme of this year’s gathering was Returning to Spirit: The Essence of Who We “Be.” Appropriately held at an institution founded by Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune who was the first Black woman to establish an institution of higher learning.  The collaboration served as a powerful reflection of the Ancestors, legacy and future vision. (Learn more about Dr. Bethune here: Bethune-Cookman Founder)

​

We invite and encourage members of our community to join ABPsi. Membership includes a subscription to The Journal of Black Psychology, discounted convention registration, opportunities for continuing education credits, and access to Certification in African/Black Psychology (CABP).

The highlight of the convention was the Enstoolment of the President of ABPSi.  Her presentation and picture are attached.

​

Black Restaurant in Daytona Beach

110 N. Beach St., Daytona Beach, FL 32114, 386-236-8593

Black Restaurant in Orlando

Karelyns Vegan, 5565 Old Cheney Highway, Orlando FL 407-720-4051

​

YORKTOWN STREET FESTIVAL DVABPsi COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION

On Saturday, August 9, 2025, the Delaware Valley Chapter of the Association of Black Psychologists (DVABPsi) proudly participated in the Yorktown Street Festival, held near 1300 West Jefferson Street, Philadelphia, PA 19122. Brother Colmon Holmes led the coordination of the DVABPsi table, with contributions from Sister Quinesha Swigget, Brother Colmon Holmes, and Dr. Ayo Maria Gooden.

​

SELF-CARE

Self-care is good mental health.  Get outside and get some sunshine and fun. Below we provide some events to help you enjoy yourself and your family.  We start off with retirement.

​

RETIREMENT

For those individuals considering retirement, Blacks must consider some additional issues for our quality of life.  Several states are often highlighted as favorable for Blacks who are considering retirement due to factors like community, cost of living, and quality of life.

​

Top States for Retirement:

• Georgia

  • Atlanta has a vibrant African American community.

  • Affordable housing and a lower cost of living compared to national averages.

• Texas

  • Cities like Houston and Dallas offer diverse communities and job opportunities.

  • No state income tax can be beneficial for retirees.

• Florida

  • Popular for its warm climate and numerous retirement communities.

  • Large African American population, especially in cities like Orlando and Miami.

• North Carolina

  • Growing cities like Charlotte and Raleigh provide cultural amenities and a moderate climate.

  • Affordable living costs and access to healthcare.

• Maryland

  • High median income and strong educational systems.

  • Proximity to Washington, D.C. offers cultural and recreational opportunities.

• Virginia

  • Richmond and Northern Virginia have rich history and strong African American communities.

  • Good healthcare facilities and quality of life.

 

Considerations:

• Cost of Living: Evaluate housing, taxes, and daily expenses.

• Healthcare Access: Proximity to quality healthcare services is crucial.

• Community and Culture: Look for areas with active African American communities and cultural events.

• Climate: Consider personal preferences for weather and outdoor activities.

These states provide a mix of community support, economic opportunities, and lifestyle benefits that can enhance retirement experiences for Blacks.

​

NATIONAL CELEBRATIONS AND LOCAL ACTIVITIES FOR BLACKS IN PA, DE, AND NJ

National and Cultural Celebrations

​

Blacks observe several holidays and traditions throughout the year: 

​

•  January 1 – Emancipation Proclamation-Lincoln revealed on September 22, 1862 that he would free those African people in the 11 states that seceded from the Union, if these states did not rejoin the union by January 1, 1863.

• January 15 – Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Birthday-Third Monday in January – National Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday.

• January 31-13th Amendment-On December 6, 1865 Congress abolished slavery in all states.

• February-Black History Month-The “Father of Black History”, Dr. Carter G. Woodson started with a week in 1926.  It was increased to a month in 1976.  Black history must be taught every day in every school and business

• February 21 –Assassination of Malcolm X- El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz (Malcolm X) was assassinated in 1965.

• May 19 – Malcolm X’s Birthday-Born on May 19 in 1925.  He was murdered on February 21, 1965.  He spoke out against racism and urged Blacks to work together to create Black sufficiency and to heal from the effects of racism.

• May 25 – African Liberation Day-A day to remind us that all Blacks on the planet have the same struggle against racism (white supremacy).

• June 19 – Juneteenth-Also known as Emancipation Day, Jun Jun and Freedom Day.  When Blacks in the United States heard the news of freedom from slavery in June 1865. 

• November 28-Umoja Karamu-Unity feast celebrated the 4th Sunday of November to promote family unity.

• Dec. 26 – Jan. 1 – Kwanzaa.  A celebration of our African roots, present accomplishments and future goals.

 

Learn more about your African Heritage.  For example, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, from an African perspective is the day parents’ bring a child into the world.  This means that if you have 5 children, you celebrate their birthdays as Mother’s, Father’s, Grandparent’s, Aunt’s, and Uncle’s Day.  It makes a lot of sense. Doesn’t it?  Read more in Afrikan People and European Holidays: A Mental Genocide, book I and II by Rev. Ishakamusa Barashango and African Holidays by James Anyike.

​

Pennsylvania

Activities and events

• North Philadelphia History Festival: A cultural celebration of African American and Puerto Rican communities in North Philadelphia, with free events and exhibits at historic sites.

• Audacity Weekend: A three-day event in Pittsburgh celebrating Black art, creativity, culture, and community, featuring an art crawl, artist showcase, and more.

• Harambee Ujima Black Arts Festival: A vibrant street festival in Pittsburgh's Homewood neighborhood celebrating Black excellence, creativity, and unity.

• Black History Month activities: Throughout February, various events like movie screenings, tours, and discussions are held to honor Black history and culture.

• Cultural centers and museums:

  • The African American Museum in Philadelphia offers interactive exhibits and activities focused on African American heritage.

  • The August Wilson African American Cultural Center in Pittsburgh hosts exhibitions and events celebrating the playwright's legacy and Black artistry.

  • The Bellefonte Art Museum for Centre County has a permanent exhibit on the Underground Railroad.

  • The Fayette County African American History and Cultural Center celebrates local African American history and hosts educational programs.

  • The Charles "Teenie" Harris Archive Gallery showcases the work of photographer Teenie Harris, documenting Pittsburgh's Black community.

• Historic sites:

  • The Johnson House Historic Site in Philadelphia was a key stop on the Underground Railroad.

  • The Harriet Tubman Memorial Statue in Bristol honors the famous conductor of the Underground Railroad.

  • Other historic sites related to the Underground Railroad can be found throughout Pennsylvania, including the McAllister's Mill site and locations along the Pennsylvania Wilds.

  • Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Plaza

 in State College commemorates Dr. King's legacy and the Civil Rights Movement.

• The Patriots of African Descent Monument at Valley Forge honors Black soldiers who served in the Revolutionary War. 

​

Delaware

Activities and events

• MixFest Block Party: A block party in Newark celebrating culture, creativity, and community.

• Kandler Celebration: An event honoring those fighting for civil liberties in Delaware.

• Summer in the Parks: Free evening entertainment in Wilmington's parks featuring R&B, Soul, and Jazz music, along with student performances and community art projects.

• Delaware Farm Crawl & Urban Farm Tour: A two-day immersive experience through Delaware’s Black farming community.

• Transcendent Resilience: Black Women, Artivism and the Carceral State: An exhibition at the University of Delaware exploring the intersection of art, activism, and systemic injustice through the experiences of Black women.

• Cultural centers and museums:

  • The Mitchell Center for African American Heritage in Wilmington collects, preserves, and presents the history of Delaware's African Americans, including the Journey to Freedom exhibition.

  • The Delaware History Museum and Mitchell Center for African American Heritage in Wilmington features exhibits highlighting the struggles and triumphs of African Americans in Delaware.

• Historic sites and trails:

  • Tubman Garret Riverfront Park marks the location where Harriet Tubman crossed into Delaware on her way to freedom.

  • The Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway highlights historic sites related to Tubman's journey to freedom.

  • Star Hill AME Church and Museum in Dover is one of Delaware's oldest African American congregations and a former station on the Underground Railroad.

  • The Black History Trail: Delaware's Black History Trail offers a network of sites that tell the story of the African American experience in the state. 

 

New Jersey

Activities and events

• Fusion in Black Expo: An expo in Newark showcasing entrepreneurship, art, music, dance, and financial literacy within the Black community.

• Khufu Temple Annual Potentate Ball: An annual ball in Somerset celebrating tradition, unity, and heritage.

• Celebrating Black Businesses and Artists: A vibrant weekend marketplace in Montclair highlighting Black-owned brands, businesses, and creatives.

• Black History Month activities: Throughout February, events like cookie decorating classes, escape rooms, flag raisings, and storytelling events are held to celebrate Black history and culture.

• Cultural centers and museums:

  • The Afro-American Historical and Cultural Society Museum.

  • The T. Thomas Fortune Cultural Center.

  • The Harriet Tubman Museum.

  • The Stoutsburg Sourland African American Museum.

  • The Peter Mott House.

  • The Dr. James Still Historic Office Site Visitors Center.

  • The African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey.

• Historic sites and trails:

  • The Black Heritage Trail offers a network of sites throughout the state that tell the story of the African American experience in New Jersey.

  • Lawnside:

 The first incorporated, self-governing Black municipality north of the Mason-Dixon Line.

• Cape May:

 A hub for the Underground Railroad and abolitionist activity. 

​

In July and August, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania hosts several events celebrating African American culture and history, including Juneteenth and the ODUNDE Festival. Delaware also has the August Quarterly, a long-standing religious celebration. Additionally, there are various festivals, film festivals, and cultural events throughout the region. 

​

Philadelphia, PA:

• Juneteenth:

The African American Museum in Philadelphia (AAMP) hosts its annual Juneteenth celebration, often including a block party, free museum admission, and family-friendly activities. 

• ODUNDE Festival:

The ODUNDE Festival, a vibrant celebration of African and Caribbean culture, takes place in Philadelphia, featuring a street festival, music, dance, food, and more. 

• Wawa Welcome America: 

This annual festival includes various events leading up to July 4th, with some specifically celebrating African American culture and history, including the Juneteenth Block Party at AAMP. 

• BlackStar Film Festival:

This festival showcases films by Black, Brown, and Indigenous artists, including features, documentaries, and shorts. 

• Other Events:

A Guide to Black Philadelphia lists numerous resources, including Black-owned businesses, restaurants, shops, and cultural sites, highlighting Black culture and history in the city. 

• Legacy in Motion:

The AAMP also hosts events like "Legacy in Motion: Honoring Pearl Bailey," which includes an artist talk and dance workshops. 

• Blair County African American Heritage Festival:

Rescheduled for mid-August, this festival takes place in downtown Altoona and celebrates African American heritage through music, food, and more. 

​

Delaware:

• August Quarterly: This is a long-standing religious celebration for African Americans, commemorating the founding of the Union Church of Africans. 

New Jersey:

• AACC Tour: The African American Chamber of Commerce of PA, NJ & DE (AACC) hosts a tour, bringing its board and vision to various cities, including Harrisburg, Philadelphia, Wilmington, and Camden. 

General Tips:

• Check websites and social media for the most up-to-date information on event schedules and potential changes due to weather or other factors. 

• Many events offer free admission or reduced prices, so plan accordingly. 

• Explore the various Black-owned businesses, restaurants, and cultural sites in each city to further immerse yourself in the local culture. 

• African American Museum in Philadelphia

AAMP Calendar. General Admission. Thursday July 3rd 10:00am - Wednesday 30th 5:00pm (EDT) WE CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOU! Thank you for ...

​

​​

​

​

​

African American Museum in Philadelphia

​

• Juneteenth to July 4th 2025: A Guide to 16 Days of Fireworks ...

Dozens of fabulous (and free!) events explode across the region to commemorate both holidays.

 

AAMP Events Calendar

 

African American Museum in Philadelphia

https://www.aampmuseum.org › calendar

​

African American Events, Festivals & Concerts in the East ...

 

Soul Nation Events

https://soulnationevents.com › events

 

The ultimate soulful experience of Black all-Inclusive events such as culture, music, comedy, food, parties

African American Chamber of Commerce of PA, NJ & DE is the best place to find an event in the Philadelphia PA area. - Calendar view.

 

Black History & Culture in Atlantic City

 

Atlantic City | Events

https://www.visitatlanticcity.com › diversity-inclusion

 

African-American Holidays, Festivals, and Celebrations

 

A Guide to Philly's 2025 Juneteenth Celebrations

 

Visit Philadelphia: https://www.visitphilly.com › articles › philadelphia ›

​

Jun 20, 2025 — Today, Juneteenth is celebrated — both in Philadelphia and nationwide — with historical reenactments, educational programming, parades, ...

 

2025 Montclair African-American Heritage Parade & Festival

Township of Montclair, NJ

https://www.montclairnjusa.org › News-articles › News

 

Jun 4, 2025 — The event begins with a lively parade that weaves its way through the town, showcasing colorful floats, marching bands, and dance troupes. Two ...

​

August Month-long Observances:

• National Black Business Month: Focuses on supporting and celebrating Black-owned businesses. National Black Business Month is celebrated throughout the month of August to recognize and support Black-owned businesses. It was established in 2004 by historian John William Templeton and engineer Frederick E. Jordan. This month-long observance encourages the public to patronize, promote, and learn about the contributions of Black entrepreneurs and their businesses to the economy. 

• Key aspects of National Black Business Month:

• Purpose:

• To acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of Black business owners and their significant impact on the economy. 

• Timing:

• Observed annually throughout the month of August. 

• History:

• Co-founded by historian John William Templeton and engineer Frederick E. Jordan in 2004. 

• Focus:

• To promote Black-owned businesses and educate the public about their importance. 

• Ways to Participate:

• Support Black-owned businesses: Patronize their establishments and services. 

• Promote Black-owned businesses: Share information about them on social media and other platforms. 

• Attend community events: Participate in events that showcase Black-owned businesses. 

• Educate yourself: Learn more about the history and challenges faced by Black entrepreneurs. 

• International Day of the World's Indigenous People: Raises awareness about indigenous communities. 

• Women's Equality Day: Commemorates the passage of the 19th Amendment to the US Constitution, granting women the right to vote. 

• International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition: Honors the victims of the transatlantic slave trade. https://www.unesco.org/en/days/slave-trade-remembrance

 

During August, please seek out Black businesses and support them.  Building Black businesses is how we build Black communities.  Start your own business and let us know about your favorite Black businesses.