Black History Month is the annual celebration of Black Americans’ achievements and their central role in history. Black History Month was one week, held on the second week of February to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. This was called “Negro History Week”. This week was established in 1926 and started by the historian Carter G. Woodson and the prominent minister Jesse E. Moorland.
In 1976, thanks in part to the civil rights movement, Negro History Week was proclaimed Black History Month by President Gerald Ford. He called upon the public to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every endeavor throughout our history.” Since then, every president has officially designated February Black History Month. Other countries worldwide have designated months to celebrate Black history as well.
Today, Black History Month is a time to honor the contributions to history from activists, civil rights pioneers, and leaders in various areas such as politics, science, culture, and more. Expanding your education around these contributions and individuals impacting history is a great way to honor the month. If you want to learn more, visit a museum or read information.
