National Black Family Day originated in May 1987 when Congressman William Herbert Gray III (Pennsylvania), entered a tribute to Jack and Jill of America into the Congressional Record on May 5, 1987 as the organization embarked upon a Black Family Day of Celebration. Activities were to focus on the needs of children worldwide with special attention to the needs of children in Africa through Jack and Jill’s partnership with Africare. Over time we have broadened our scope to focus on aspects of family and the cultural heritage of African-American families. Activities are planned around the importance of family which promotes solidarity such as:
- Family dinners
- Family worship
- Family communication workshops
- Community service for children without families
- Support of non-traditional families such as foster care homes, workshops on the need for black adoptions etc.
