The History of Black History Month
As Black History Month comes to a close, we might start to overlook the achievements and experiences of African Americans in the US. However, it’s important to remember that even though we might not be as exposed to pro African American content in the news and on social media in other months of the year, Black history is more prevalent now than ever.
Related: Black History Month: Let’s Stop With the Performative Activism
Black History Month originated as “[Colored Person] History Week” in 1926 by African American historian Carter G. Woodson to promote accomplishments of the African American community. In upcoming decades, mayors across the US started recognizing the week every year. Following the Civil Rights Movement, college campuses began honoring Black History Month in place of “[Colored Person] History Week.” Finally, in 1976, president Gerald Ford officially named Black History Month as a period to bring awareness to the successes of Black people throughout American history. Since then, every American president has recognized February as Black History Month. We now observe Black History Month to celebrate the influences of important historical Black figures and turning points in history for the Black community (History.com).
Present-day Black activists such as Amanda Gorman and Michelle Obama attempt to bring awareness to the presence of Black inequities even though we live in a proclaimed inclusive nation. They discuss relevant issues in the US faced predominantly by African Americans like police brutality, racial profiling, disparities in the workplace, etc. Gorman and Obama also work to advocate for the rights of Black individuals with overlapping marginalized identities, such as Black queer women. While these women experience the oppression that comes with being African American in a historically racist nation, they face additional layers of oppression from their sexuality and gender.
Of course, we must remember the reasons why we celebrate Black History Month. Slavery was still not abolished up until the 13th amendment was passed. Racial segregation was considered legal until the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Black people were unable to vote fairly until the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Black women sacrificed their lives to amplify Black voices and advocate for equal rights. Harriet Tubman risked her life to lead enslaved people through the Underground Railroad and rescue them from slavery in the south. Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat to a white man on a public bus in Alabama and was arrested for violating segregation laws. Men like Martin Luther King Jr., a prime leader during the Civil Rights Movement, spoke out about the injustices of “separate but equal” but were met with death threats and harassment.
While our nation has certainly made progress by acknowledging the resilience and undeniable strength of the Black community, there is still a long way to go. Now that it’s March, don’t stop celebrating Black History Month.