Black History Month is a month dedicated to learning about the history, culture and achievements of people of color. During the month of February, people can take a deeper look at important events and individuals who helped shape the world.
History on Black History Month
Black History Month began in the United States to recognize and celebrate the achievements and contributions of Black Americans that were often excluded from history education. It started in 1926 when historian Dr. Carter G. Woodson founded “Black History Week” through the (ASALH). He chose February to honor the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass who are important figures to the fight against slavery.
As awareness and support grew during the civil rights movement the celebration expanded. In 1976, Black African American History Week officially became Black History Month, by President Gerald Ford as a time for all Americans to honor Black history. Today, Black History Month is observed across the United States and in other countries such as through arts, cultures and cultural events. It is a time to learn and reflect on the lasting impact of individuals of color on history, culture and society.
Junior Kowsar Ali shares, “Sojourner Truth, a suffrage and Black-African American rights activist, along with many others have made it possible for future people of color. Truth has paved the road for every person of color who followed by proving that truth is a force that can’t be silenced. She was a woman who refused to let the world and its ways define her. She didn’t just challenge racism, she challenged both racism and sexism ensuring that Black women were not left out of the fight.”
Importance of Black History Month
The importance of Black History Month is how it is able to honor and celebrate the many contributions that Black Americans have made to history, culture and progress of the United States. Schools often focused on European history, U.S. political history and major wars, while the contributions of Black Americans in science, culture, politics and social justice were treated as “side notes” rather than central parts of the story. Scholar and writer Eve L. Ewing argues that for many Black and Native children, their schooling experience and history have been treated as “just a footnote” rather than the central narrative they deserve to be.
During segregation and the Jim Crow era, educational systems were made to reinforce racial inequality, which meant that Black History was rarely taught accurately, if at all. As a result, generations of students grew up without learning the full, rich history of communities of color and their impact on society.
Sophomore Hamadah Moussa said, “I think Black History Month is important because Black history is often not fully taught, even though people of color have faced marginalization throughout history. We usually talk about slavery, but we don’t always go deeper into achievements, struggles, and contributions of Black Americans. Since we learn so much about other cultures and world events, we should also make sure we understand and respect Black history in America. Learning it helps us be more aware and thoughtful in the future.”
It began in 1926 as “Black History Week,” started by historian Carter G. Woodson to make sure people learned real history about Black achievements. It grew into a month-long observance that helps everyone learn about struggles for freedom, civil rights, inventors, leaders, artists and everyday lives that shaped the nation. By focusing on these stories each February., Black History Month helps people understand the full story of America, recognize the courage and creativity of Black individuals and reflect on how their work continues to influence society today.
How High Schoolers Celebrate
High school students celebrate Black History Month through school activities and classroom lessons. Students may work on projects, give presentations or create artwork. Schools may also invite guest speakers or hold events that celebrate the culture of the people of color.
Freshman Safia Roble stated “Students celebrate Black History Month in remembrance and recognition for the sacrifices made by our past leaders who fought for the rights of the people, and put their safety and lives on the line to make the future generations lives better.”
Recognizing People Of Color
Historical figures who have played a crucial role in Black history. Harriet Tubman (1822-1913): During the Civil War, she served as a spy and scout for the Union Army, becoming the first woman to lead an armed assault in 1863, which rescued over 700 enslaved people.
Martin Luther King, Jr. (1929-1968): A Baptist minister and social activist who became the most prominent leader in the American civil rights movement. He advocated for nonviolent civil disobedience, leading the 1955 Montgomery bus boycott and delivering the “I Have a Dream” speech.
Rosa Parks (1913–2005): Known as “the mother of the freedom movement,” she refused to give up her seat to a white man on a Montgomery, Alabama, bus in 1955, sparking the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the modern civil rights movement.
Malcolm X (1925–1965): A prominent minister and spokesman for Islam. He advocated for Black empowerment, self-defense and human rights.
Shirley Chisholm (1924–2005): The first Black woman elected to the U.S. Congress (1968) and the first Black candidate to run for a major party’s nomination for President (1972).
Career Pathways Navigator Brian Coleman added, “ Black history isn’t just about slavery, although it’s a part of history. Black History month should allow students to have an understanding and appreciation for the contributions of blacks to the world we live in today.”
Black History Month is not only about remembering the past but also about inspiring the future. It reminds young people that they can achieve their goals no matter their background. By honoring Black History we celebrate progress, acknowledge struggles and continue working toward a more equal and inclusive world.