Black History Month: Its Past, Present and Future

BONUS-BLACK HISTORY MONTH READ OF THE DAY

February is Black History Month, a time to honor Black culture and accomplishments. This month is also devoted to acknowledging the deep injustices that Black Americans have historically endured and overcome. Black History Month was conceived by prominent Black historian Carter G. Woodson in 1915. Woodson was the second Black man to receive a Ph.D. in history from Harvard University, following W.E.B DuBois.

His concept was originally known as “Negro History Week.” It was observed during the second week of February to coincide with the birthdays of PresidentAbraham Lincoln and Black abolitionist leader Frederick Douglass. Woodson wanted to make sure schoolchildren had access to information about Black history, and that it was not simply in the hands of white academics. His organization, Association for the Study of Negro Life and History, is now called the Association for the Study of African American Life and History. The ASALH now endeavors to keep his legacy alive.

Negro History Week was soon adopted by Black American communities throughout the country, with events being held to educate and celebrate Black history. Soon, Americans of all races began to observe the occasion. By the mid-20th century, mayors nationwide made statements to raise awareness for Negro History Week.

As the civil rights movement progressed, the nation’s consciousness of Black history, culture, and contributions progressed with it. President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month in February of 1976, and ever since then, the event has been observed annually not only in the United States, but worldwide. Countries such as Canada, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands also recognize Black History Month.

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