Black History Month was started by Carter G. Woodson in 1926. Carter G. Woodson was the founder of the Association for the Study of African American History. Woodson was the son of a recently freed slave, who went on to earn a Ph.D. from Harvard. He wanted this month to be dedicated to educating people on black history and culture, also recognizing the countless black men and women who have contributed to the advancement of human civilization. February was chosen as Black History Month because it was the month Fredrick Douglas and Abraham Lincoln were born. OHS is doing quite a bit this year to celebrate Black History Month and honor those who fought for equality and civil rights along with our peer’s rights.
At Owatonna High School, there are many ways to celebrate Black History Month. This month there are some important events the school is doing to celebrate. OHS is putting together informational slides on African American scientific, literary, civil rights leaders, and historical figures. These slides will be up on the TV’s around the school.
The slides will be filtered out weekly so none are repeated. A film was shown on Compass Day to show the importance of Black History Month. Along with the film, there will be a field trip to an art museum to celebrate Black History Month and Asian Pacific Islanders in the upcoming months. Also, announcements over the intercom recognizing Black History Month and events happening in the community and around Owatonna will be made.
During this month it’s important to recognize the historical figures on the TVs, notice ones some may be unfamiliar with, and ask about them.
Owatonna Assistant Principal, Philip Wiken said, “Notice the figures you don’t recognize there’s so much depth in those individuals and their stories.” Teachers in the school are trying to bring more African American authors and stories into classrooms to further educate students. Like, introducing more African American authors, scientists, inventors, and influences to the curriculum. Students can ask about those authors, scientists, and historical figures. Learn more about their stories. Another way to contribute is to read more books written by African American authors and listen to their stories.
