For the month of February, Black History is observed. A month dedicated to the intelligence, art, and love within a community. The past is important to opening the door to the future. You can never understand someone until you know their past, which is the beauty in the importance of this month. Carter G. Woodson created the "Negro History Week" that eventually transformed into Black History Month. He wanted to spread the beauty in his culture, and create a national understanding of his heritage. His goal was to make history accessible to a wider audience. He had a passion for his community and today we celebrate it not only as a country, but as also many countries have come together with us to observe it to make Black History Month international.
The celebration of this month can be credited to the rise in black culture in the 1920s during the Harlem Renaissance. Writers, musicians, and artist spoke through their art and created an interest in the culture that created positive images for the community. Woodson wanted to increase the visibility of black life and history, especially when at the time media was often negative regarding African Americans. Today, Carter G. Woodson can be credited for the start of a transition of change that is relevant today. He endeavors have had an everlasting effect on society.
Educators, scholars, and the nation endorsed the "Negro History Week" that first was celebrated in February 1926, a month that included the birthday of such great men as Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincolns. 50 years later, in 1976 and in the wake of the Civil Rights movement, President Gerald R. Ford expanded the week to the entire month of February. Since, The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) was created, and has fought to keep Woodson's legacy alive and build upon his efforts.
"Black Family: Representation, Identity and Diversity" is the theme for this year's Black History Month. It is a theme centered around family, ancestry, love, and community. This concept provides a rich image for exploring the African American, past and present, and creates a platform for continued examining, celebrating, and discussing of the culture and its people.
What Can You Do To Keep Black History Alive?
The ASALH holds events to promote and celebrate Black History throughout the year, not just for the month of February. . Educating yourself and those around you can help people engage in the depth of the heritage and open the door to rich conversations and stronger cultural awareness and understanding. Take the time to read African American Literature, or visit museums, historical sites, and memorials devoted to the importance of the African American culture.
For more information on Black History, Visit https://asalh.org
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