Black History Month 2021

Photo: Paul Gallmeier

The Conservancy for CVNP invites you to commemorate Black History with us as we recall stories of our park’s history, honor individuals who helped shape our present and celebrate everyone currently making an impact. We will continue to add stories and resources to this page, so be sure to check back often!

Kim Smith Woodford

Meet Kim Smith Woodford, founder of Journey on Yonder (JOY). Kim fell in love with the outdoors and wanted to share her passion with the Black community. Through her work, she aims to create a safe space – both literally and figuratively – for the Black community within nature. Read her story here.

Connect with History

Cuyahoga Connections Volume Six commemorates Black History Month and encourages children to learn about the many individuals who worked for positive change in the United States. Download a journal teaches kids about the nation’s first park rangers, The Buffalo Soldiers, and the tough lives they led. What was life like for a Buffalo Soldier, and how can we learn from history to create a better future? Explore Cuyahoga Connections Volume Six.

Photo courtesy of Janice Radl

Janice Randl

We recently spoke with Janice Radl, Conservancy Board Member and retired librarian about her experience falling in love with hiking – and how it all started with a spark of curiosity and a friendly invitation. Read her reflection below: Read her interview here.

Meet SYATT: See You At The Top

National Park Service

The National Park Service and many partners have worked together to share stories of Black History. Here are some resources we strongly encourage you to explore:

28 Days of Black History

African American Heritage Sites

10 Ways to Commemorate Black History Month in National Parks

Twenty & Odd Video: “Developed by a group of NPS staff and interns, this film explores the trauma, resilience, and beauty of the African American experience in our country.”

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Did you know CVNP was created in 1974 through the Parks to the People movement? Learn more about this history of YOUR national park through these resources created by our colleagues at CVNP.

Exploring Black History in Cuyahoga Valley

Carl B. Stokes and the 1969 River Fire

The 1969 Cuyahoga River Fire

John Malvin

Jane Edna Hunter