We're only 45 days into 2023, and already there have been 67 mass shootings in our country. Before we jump into our regularly scheduled communications, we're pausing to let you know that we see your sadness and hear your frustrations. Our hearts are once again broken after the recent shooting at Michigan State University. We grieve for the victims, students, families, and anyone impacted by gun violence. The news can feel heavy, but remember that you have power. Your voice and actions can serve as a catalyst for change, taking steps to claim our democracy and heal our nation. Please remember to take care of yourself and your loved ones. Visit our diverse mental health resource hub and our gun safety page to learn more and share resources with your loved ones.

Still processing Rihanna’s half-time show from Sunday’s Superbowl? Us too! She slaaaayed, and it’s pretty sweet to see a Black woman taking center stage at one of the world’s biggest sporting events of the year, especially since it’s during Black History Month. Rihanna is claiming the spotlight and resisting the status quo, and we’re here for it!

To keep Sunday night’s momentum going, let’s remember that Black Resistance isn’t limited to Superbowl Halftime Shows. Athletes have been using their platform for Black resistance for decades, and some stories even date back to the 19th century. Some examples include cheerleaders from Brown University sitting out the national anthem, John Carlos and Tommie Smith raising a Black Power fist during their Olympic medal ceremony, Abdul-Jabbar boycotting the Olympics for its mistreatment of Black Americans, and many others who made history.

That means when Colin Kaepernick takes a knee for Black Lives Matter, and Washington Mystics basketball player Natasha Cloud speaks up about police brutality, they’re following in the footsteps of courageous activists that came before them. The coolest part? When athletes engage in #BlackResistance this way, they’re proving that their sport is much more than what happens on the field–it’s a gateway to activism.

Let’s Do This!

DoSomething

We asked our members last week about their thoughts on this year’s Black History Month theme: Black resistance. Here’s what they had to say:

DoSomething member Lydia said, “I think that the theme this year is really cool because it shows that not only do black lives matter, but that those in disadvantaged positions can stand up for themselves and make a difference. I'm going to research about members of our Black communities who are making a difference and support them in any way that I can”

“Black history month reminds me of the good things and how strong our ancestors were,” said DoSomething member Sandrine. “Being able to attend a school as a black woman reminds me that there were sacrifices that were made to make my life better. It is the month to help me reflect on what I can do to make their sacrifices meaningful. Through love and building an inclusive environment.”

We’re stoked to hear from more of you, so hit the link below and give us your take:

ICYMI… Our banned books program, Uncensored, dropped last week and we’re excited for you to dive into our book list. The perfect act of resistance during Black History Month–read a book by a banned Black author and share your perspective!

Speaking up… are Gen-Z students who say they’re tired of schools failing to prepare them for the digital world. All the more reason to keep advocating for better STEM resources and educational opportunities in general!

Making history… is mayonnaise! Wait, whaaat? Hellman’s Mayonnaise took a different approach to Superbowl commercials by promising to feed 1 million Americans with the organization Feeding America. Weird, but we’re kind of into it?

STEM in the news… Scientists have developed satellites to help aid victims of the recent earthquake disaster in Turkey and Syria. STEM innovations that help humanity never cease to amaze us!

Did you see… ASL and North American Indian Sign Language interpreters making history at the Superbowl? This is a big win for inclusivity, and we can’t get enough of Justine Miles's interpretation of Rhianna’s performance!

Fastweb Opportunity 

CollegeXpress

February is the perfect time to thank your school counselor for alllll the help they’ve been giving you with preparing for your post-school dreams! Our friends at CollegXpress are giving away a $1,500 scholarship ($1,000 for you, $500 for your counselor), and all you have to do is answer one simple question. 

Complete a free profile on CollegeXpress and answer the following to be entered: How has your school counselor helped you this academic year?

#CallForKindess

Calling all young leaders who want to change the world! Do you have an idea to lit-er-ally change the future? Answer the Call for Kindness and you could win up to $3K to fund your project. Pretty freakin’ sweet! Application deadline is April 2, 2023. Learn more here!

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