Andréa Johnson, aj248@uakron.edu
With the month of February came a series of holidays. Now we may not all celebrate each of these holidays, but there is one in particular one that should not be overlooked. This month is what I like to call paramount. From literature, to music, to art, to fashion, and to other forms of cultural expression, the African-American influence has played a central role in shaping the U.S.
WHAT IS BLACK HISTORY MONTH?
Black History Month is an annual holiday celebrated to recognize the contributions and accomplishments of African Americans throughout the history of the United States. It’s deemed that American history couldn’t be what it is without Black history. It showcases Black culture as the core of what makes the United States a nation.
THE HISTORY OF BLACK HISTORY MONTH - THE MAN BEHIND IT
Black History Month would not be here if it weren’t for Carter G. Woodson. As a student, Woodson believed that African Americans were not taught enough about their heritage, and just like W.E.B Dubois, he dedicated his life’s work to Black recognition.
In February of 1926, Woodson would send out a press release announcing the launch of Negro History Week. Yes, a week. Woodson decided the month of February to coincide with the birthdays of President Abraham Lincoln and Civil Rights activist and Abolitionist Fredrick Douglas. Negro History Week would soon gain the attention of schools and local organizations.
However, it wasn’t until 1979 that President Gerald Ford recognized Black History Month. Thanks to the civil rights movement, Negro History Week had expanded into Black History Month. Ford spoke upon the American public to “Seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.” Woodson passed away in 1950 from a heart attack before he could see his work expand but his legacy continues to live on and would receive the title of “Father of Black History”
COUNTRIES THAT CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY MONTH OTHER THAN THE U.S.
We know that Black History Month is widely celebrated throughout the United States but, did you know that other countries honor Black History Month as well? Countries such as Canada, The United Kingdom, Ireland, and Germany have taken part in observing Black achievements.
Today, we celebrate Black History Month not only to honor the contributions of African Americans across the U.S. but also to see Black History as the foundation of American History.
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