Background

Since 1976 Black History Month has been recognized by the United States every February. However many people don’t know it dates back to as late as 1926. Carter G. Woodson is known for first creating the idea of a month to honor contributions in American history made by African Americans. Him and members of his Association for the Study of Negro Life and History organized “Negro history week”. Which was chosen in February for Abraham Lincoln’s birthday, which he is known for the Emancipation Proclamation. Also because abolitionist and public speaker Fredrick Douglass was born in February, The exact date is unknown, because of his life of being born into slavery. However his accomplishments in life gave him a large amount of recognition with his public speeches on the impact of slavery and the harsh treatments, Devoting his life to abolition.

Later on in 1969 Students at Kent State University proposed Black history month in February. Six years later being recognized by president Gerald Ford.  During a presidential message to Americans urging to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.” 

Figures

Black history has been an important aspect of all our lives. Inventions and contributions made by these figures are a big part of history that is often overlooked. From every day items like the fountain pen, pencil sharpener, door knobs. To things that make life safer like the Fire Extinguisher, Elevator Door System, Fire Escape Ladder & Traffic Signal. Learning about things like this helps honor the complex history. Learning about the accomplishments of these Americans and not just focusing on the slavery aspect, helps more understand the history and preserves the impact of  Americans who influenced their day lives.

Modern Importance

Black History Month’s goal is to  integrate school curriculums with African American history. Changing the portrayal of Black historical figures from enslaved people to other accomplishments. To change the simplified portrayals to more explain the complex history.  “Activists and historians started important conversations about not only the legacies of the American Revolution, but which groups were traditionally included or excluded from stories of the nation’s history” – Dr. Mirelle Luecke 

Future
In February of 2025, Google Calendar would no longer be highlighted on the default calendar. Also in the same year Trump’s anti-DEI efforts cancelled international recognition for the DIA. Modern day importance for the legacy of Black History is still a journey today. 

In students lives

I asked multiple students, what Black History Month meant to them? One student said;  “Black history for me means celebrating the roots and culture of African Americans, celebrating our culture that is rooted in a shared history of survival and overcoming oppression, this identity is expressed through music (jazz, blues, hip-hop), literature, cuisine, and language.” 

How has black history affected my life? “It’s affected everything, to how and where I live, where I get an education, it shapes the daily lives of Black people through lasting systemic inequalities and the wealth gap and health disparities.” 

Who is an African American role model who you look up to?

“An important African American role model who I look up to is Madam C.J. Walker. Despite being born to formerly enslaved parents in poverty post-Civil War and having no formal education, she built a business that made her the wealthiest Black woman in America at the time of her death. she was also a She was a loyal advocate for women’s economic independence”