What is Black History Month?

Black History Month is an annual period where we celebrate and acknowledge the achievements, history, and role African Americans have played in the evolution of the United States. Though we observe it each February, how many of us know the celebration’s history and how it has changed over the years?

The History:

Black History Month began with an organization called “The Association For The Study Of Negro Life And History” (ASNLH) founded in 1915. The ASNLH dedicated its time and energy to spotlight the success of many overlooked African Americans during that time. In 1926, the organization came up with the idea of “Negro History Week” and chose the second week of February to represent it.  

As this idea gained popularity, people all over the country began to participate in it. Schools and communities nationwide decided to put together celebrations, history clubs, lectures, and performances. 

Over the decades, leaders all over the country began to recognize “Negro History Week” and thanks to the civil rights movement and growing representation of African-Americans, people began to recognize “Negro History Week” as Black History Month. In 1976, President Gerald Ford officially acknowledged Black History Month as a national celebration. Now, it is a time to honor the accomplishments, culture, and contributions of African Americans. 

Happy Black History Month!