Things to Buy During Black History Month That Give Back

With Black History Month fully underway, we’re thinking of ways to learn more, do more, and give more. And since we’re all about shopping smarter, today we’re highlighting things you’ll love that also give back. 

We rounded up products whose proceeds directly benefit local makers and artisans from underprivileged BIPOC communities, and some that benefit charitable organizations you’re familiar with (hi, NAACP and ACLU). Because a little can go a long way. Check ‘em out.

An ‘I belong’ shirt from Consciously Unbiased…

All proceeds go toward the NAACP Legal Defense Fund. But Consciously Unbiased doesn’t stop there. They offer interactive workshops that focus on discussing race in the workplace, unconscious bias, and authentic allyship. They help companies address diversity and inclusion goals, creating customized roadmaps that’ll produce real impact. ($38, Consciously Unbiased)

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A pair of brass medallion earrings to wear to your next Zoom meeting…

Global Goods Partners (a not-for-profit social enterprise) works with local artisans in Nairobi, Kenya. Committed to providing sustainable jobs for women, Global Goods Partners has worked with over 60 groups from more than 20 countries. This specific group of artisans from Nairobi source local materials like metal and horn. On top of earning fair wages, the artisans get access to medical care and career training. ($72, MERcantilia on Global Goods Partners)

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A set of pins all about the Black Lives Matter movement…

These pins are handmade, and a bit more delicate than enamel pins. So don’t put ‘em on a backpack or anything that gets a lot of wear and tear. With every purchase of a three-pack of pins, 10% of proceeds are donated to Black Women’s Blueprint. This organization is dedicated to supporting Black women and girls, their struggles, and the social, political, and economical injustices they face within larger Black communities. ($5.50+, KaleihuluCA on Etsy)

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A pack of reusable, non-medical face masks that support the ACLU…

Protect yourself and help others along the way. Everlane created the 100% Human campaign after the 2016 election to promote civil union among rising tensions across the US. With over $1 million dollars donated so far, 10% of every purchase of any 100% Human product goes toward the ACLU. So mask up and do good. ($25/5 pack, Everlane)

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A tote bag with proceeds going toward Planned Parenthood…

Yes, Planned Parenthood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing all women across the country with access to reproductive health care. But Planned Parenthood also has a focus on communities, including the Black community. They work to provide women with access to regular STD and pregnancy testing, cancer screenings, and reproductive health information. Their goal is to support Black women who may have a hard time receiving high-quality health care. ($20, Power & Light Press)

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A hand-woven raffia basket made by local artisans in Uganda…

Consider it your catchall for small items like rings, keys, and earrings. Place it in your entryway, or by your bedside. Kazi is dedicated to empowering local artisans around the globe. They help those in Rwanda, Uganda, and Ghana get access to fair wages, permanently impacting incomes of local families that work hard to create these custom goods. ($32, Kazi)

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A pair of suede espadrilles made with locally sourced materials…

They’re handmade in Kenya, from Kenyan leather. Plus, every pair created supports full-time employment for local workers. And the social impact goes far beyond just that. The Ubuntu Life Foundation supports children throughout Kenya with special educational and physical needs. ($95, Ubuntu Life on Amazon)

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A pack of loose-leaf chamomile herbal tea from a company that’s working to eradicate youth homelessness...

But there’s more. Five percent of proceeds go toward at-risk youth. Partners include Code Fever Miami, LA Conservation Corps, Urban Growers Collective, and No Kid Hungry. A chain reaction can start with you. ($25, BLK & Bold on Amazon)

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A DIY bracelet kit that’s the perfect quarantine winter activity…

Each kit includes different rainbow-inspired, hand-rolled Karatasi beads, raffia tassels, and stretch cord. A lot of thought goes into each kit, too. They’re crafted by women in Uganda, using sustainable materials like up-cycled cow horn, raffia from palm leaves, and sisal from agave plants. Psst...Akola is a company created by women for women. They employ nearly 200 women, giving them the opportunity to earn fair wages for their family, learn management skills, and act as community leaders. And while you’re browsing, check out these earrings. ($49.99, Akola)

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A shirt inspired by the one and only Diana Ross…

The collection launched on her 75th birthday, and is modeled after an iconic photo of her. And with net proceeds going toward Higher Heights, you really can’t lose with this shirt. ($35, Phenomenal)

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A bandana you can wear to accessorize any outfit…

This isn’t just any regular bandana. It’s a bandana that gives back. Made from organic cotton, each one has an image of people protesting with a symbolic chain pattern as the border. And a portion of each sale goes toward the NAACP Legal Defense Fund. Power to the people. ($30, Uncommon Goods)

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PS: These are editorially selected, but if you purchase, theSkimm may get something in return. PPS: If something’s out of stock, oops, it was there when we published. And we apologize for any shipping delays due to COVID-19. Thanks.

Skimm'd by Alexandra Napoli, Jessica Kelly