Black History Month, also known as African American History Month, is dedicated to African Americans’ history, achievements, and works throughout history. Celebrated throughout February, Black History Month is a nationally recognized holiday in the US, Canada, the United Kingdom, and other countries.
Why do we celebrate Black History Month?
Black History Month is an important celebration throughout many countries. However, throughout history, people have questioned if this month is important or even necessary at all. The truth is that black history month is an imperative month for many reasons. Black History Month is a crucial part of remembering history. It commemorates the achievements of African Americans and recognizes the racism that has existed in this country in the past and continues to exist today. It brings attention to the groups and organizations working to make a change. We must remember former black lives so that history is not forgotten and so that it isn’t repeated.
What are the origins of Black History Month?
After being inspired by a large event in 1915, in which thousands of African Americans gathered to view exhibits that highlighted the progress African Americans had made since the end of slavery. The month can trace its roots back to Carter G Woodson, who gathered with a small group of others and formed the Association for the study of negro life and history. From there they created the Journal of Negro History, a book about the achievements and accomplishments of black Americans. This collection helped establish the Negro History Week in the second week of February. He chose the second week of February to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. In 1976 President Gerald Ford changed the week to a month, wanting to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout history.
Who are important people to remember
During Black History Month it is important to remember not only the achievements of African Americans but also the people behind the achievements; those who fought for the freedom and equality of African Americans. Remembering people such as Martin Luther King Jr., whose famous “I Have a Dream search” and his activism efforts made him a widely recognized figure in both the African American community and throughout the United States; Fredrick Douglass, whose many writings advocated for the freedom of enslaved people; Harriet Tubman, whose efforts led to hundreds of slaves being brought to freedom as well as fought for women’s rights; Rosa Parks, also known as the mother of the civil rights movement, mainly known for her refusal to give up her seat on a bus for a white man; and many other people helped to fight for the rights of Black people across the United States.
Take Aways
It is important to remember the people who fought for the freedoms of African Americans and remember the history and stories of the people who worked hard to make this nation what it is today. Without African Americans, the United States would not be where it is today, and it is important to never forget their contributions to history.
