Black History Month, highlighted every February in the United States, Canada, and beyond, is an annual month-long celebration that honors the contributions, achievements, and history of Black individuals throughout history. We have come a long way, but we still have a long way to go.
Back in 1926, Dr. Carter G. Woodson invented Negro History Week. This special week took place the second week of February, the sole purpose being that Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass’ birthdays would occur within the same week. This was because they were both key figures in the fight against slavery.
By the 1960s, during the Civil Rights Movement, people grew a desire to extend this week-long celebration. In 1976, President Gerald Ford formally announced the week-long celebration would become a month-long celebration. Hence the name, Black History Month.
During Black History Month, many individuals come together using celebrations, programs, and lectures to educate themselves and others on the history of Black Americans. Each year the month honors influential figures in many different areas due to a theme. Some themes are politics, sports, science, and arts, that include people such as Maya Angelou, Rosa Parks, and Martin Luther King Jr.
This celebration has not only grown from a week to a month, but it has grown around the world. This tradition originated in the United States, however, countries like Canada and the United Kingdom have begun observing this month and bringing recognition to Black Communities.
This month is a crucial reminder of the significance and brilliance of key Black individuals throughout history. Although there are many past achievements, this month is also a reminder of the ongoing fight for racial equality and that we cannot be blind to the need for it. With that being said, Black History Month continues to advocate for a fair, inclusive, equal world.
