Black History Month

  In the month of February, the citizens of the United States commemorate Black History Month by honoring African American history. Throughout American history, African Americans have served a very significant role by the many contributions that they have made through their countless achievements. We honor them by spotlighting the many sacrifices, struggles and triumphs that have been endured and accomplished by black individuals throughout American history. 

  Black History Month is an observance that serves as a national reminder on how our country has been shaped for the better by the courageous civil rights activists and black individuals that expressed the need for equality and inclusion within American society. Their efforts served as a vital backbone for how valued equality and diversity are today. 

  The initial concept of the observance dates back to the 1920’s. Carter G. Woodson was an African American historian and scholar who dedicated his life to promoting education on the contributions of African Americans. Woodson proposed the idea that there should be a week dedicated to honoring black history; in February of 1926 Black History Week was established. Woodson is considered the “The Father of Black History” for his notable contribution to education on African American History.

  Black History Week led to the creation of Black History Month in 1976 when President Gerald Ford established the entire month of February as a time to promote and recognize education on Black History. 

  Expanding on the topic, https://.nmaahc.si.edu states “[Black History Month] was timed in February to coincide with President Abraham Lincoln’s and Fredrick Douglass’s Birthdays.” 

  The two men are honored figures for their contributions to racial equality and represent freedom. Douglass advised the abolishment of slavery to Lincoln, which led Lincoln to abolish slavery in 1865. 

  Every year, Black History month has a different theme. The different themes display the ways that African Americans have impacted American culture through various social movements and ideologies. Each theme is a way to focus attention on one of the many influences Black culture has had on society. 

  According to https://www.si.edu, “The 2024 theme is ‘African Americans and the Arts’ spanning the many impacts Black Americans have had on visual arts, music, cultural movements and more.” 

 The 2024 theme emphasizes the significant cultural impact that Africans have had on the styles of art seen today. Cultural contributions in film, music, sports, literature and other industries have been made by countless African Americans. Iconic figures like Langsthen Hughes, Jackie Robinson, Maya Angelou and many others have had a huge impact on American culture.

  Ideals centered on race may not have changed without the advocacy of historical civil rights activists like Martin Luther King, Harriet Tubman and Rosa Parks. Black history month is a great way to honor these individuals.

  Black Americans have faced countless obstacles throughout history, such as slavery, segregation, discrimination and injustice. Education on these topics can develop a newfound appreciation for the incredible resilience and strength of the black community.