Black History Month marks an important time in remembering the roots of black history. This month gives us a chance to remember the Black struggle over time. Moreover, learning about history helps us understand the present better. It also helps us to tackle the situations that arise in the world. Remember, Black history isn’t all about slavery and racism. But it is about the achievements and works of the African American community.

This celebration happens every year in the month of February. These month-long celebrations happen in both America and Canada. It provides us a chance to celebrate the works of our fellow Black community members. If you wish to learn more about the black struggle, then buy Thomas Jones book on his life. Here, he talks about his journey from being a campus revolutionary to becoming a tycoon on Wall Street. So, join us as we learn more about Black History Month.

The Beginning of Black History Month

This celebration didn’t start as a month-long activity. But it started as the Negro History Week in February 1926. Carter G. Woodson, also famous as the father of Black history, was the one to start this. He was also the one who helped in starting the field of African American studies. The main aim was to start learning more about Black history and struggle. This was the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History. Whose main aim was to teach everyone about the Black living experience. Later, they renamed it to the Association for the Study of African American Life and History. Thus making it one of the oldest institutes for this cause.

Black History Month and February

Woodson chose February for the week-long Black History event. This was because it goes along with the birthdates of former American president Lincoln and reformer Douglass. Both of these men played an important role in helping end slavery and racism. Woodson also understood that the Black community celebrates the births of these men. Thus, he took the chance and set this week-long event. His main aim was to help people learn more about Black history. Which will help them understand their roots and build a stronger community. Later, this week-long event changed into a month-long celebration. Thus spreading from the US to Canada and the world.

The Nationalism of Black History

After the civil rights movement and spreading awareness of Black history, mayors from many cities started celebrating this week. Eventually, by the late 1960s, this week turned into a month due to its growing popularity. Moreover, college campuses were one of the main places where they celebrated this month. In 1976, President Ford officially called for the Black History Month celebrations. He went on to urge Americans to honor the Black history in his speech. As Black people had one of the most works and the least recognition. Since then, every US president has recognized this month and its mission.

Black History Month Celebrations

In the beginning, this month was a way of teaching young people about Black history. The main aim was to spread awareness regarding the works of our fellow African Americans. Schools and colleges taught the long-forgotten stories of famous Black people. Today, Black History Month aims to share the lives of people who have played their part in shaping the world. This goes beyond scientific work and inventions. Rather, it focuses on the activism and social work of the Black community. This month-long event is a great opportunity to learn about our roots. The learning goes beyond racism and slavery and highlights the works of our community.

Black History Month Theme

There is a different theme every year for Black History. Woodson’s group, ASALH, chooses the theme of this month year after year. The theme of Black History Month for the year 2024 is African Americans and the Arts. The aim is to learn more about Black people’s work in the arts. This includes visual and performing arts. Moreover, it also includes fashion, literature, films, music, and much more. So learning about this shows how Black History is rich with different works. It also shows how this month isn’t all about learning about slavery and racism. It plays a vital role in showing how the Black people are equal members of society.

Worldwide Celebration of Black History Month

The celebrations of Black History Month happen across the world. Just like the US, Canada celebrates Black History in February. Jean Augustine was a member of the parliament. She was the first person to shed light on the Black struggle in 1995.

Countries like the United Kingdom, Ireland, and the Netherlands celebrate their Black History in October.  In 1987, the UK started its celebrations but only focused on Black American History. Over time, Black British history has also become an important part. Today, it focuses more on honoring the African British work for their country. So, they focus on digging deeper, looking closer, and thinking bigger.

Importance of Black History Month

Black History Month holds great importance in the lives of African Americans. It provides them with a chance to think about what lies ahead.  So it offers the chance to think about the future. Moreover, it also helps us in planning the ways in which we can work for a better future. So, it’s important to understand the Black struggle. But for many, the reasons that drove Woodson are still relevant.

As many say, remembering our history is a way to work for the future. Thus, the black struggle continues. To make the world a better place and to teach others the importance of equality for all humans.

Now that you know the basics and importance of Black History Month. It’s time to read about the people behind this cause. If you wish to read a truly inspiring story of a young man’s struggle. Read the Thomas Jones story to know his struggles.