Black History Month

What is Black History Month?

Black history month is a month dedicated to celebrating and honoring the achievements and contributions of African Americans in history. It is celebrated throughout the month of February each year.

History Behind Black History Month

Black History Month, observed every February in the United States and Canada, began as a weeklong celebration in 1926. It was founded by historian Carter G. Woodson, the second African American to earn a doctorate from Harvard University. Woodson established “Negro History Week” during the second week of February, which coincided with the birthdays of both Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, two key figures in African American history.

Over time, the observance grew in popularity, and in 1976, as part of the United States Bicentennial celebrations, President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month. It became an annual tradition, officially celebrated every February, with a focus on honoring the history, culture, and contributions of African Americans.

How Black History Month is Celebrated?

Throughout Black History Month, various events, activities, and programs are held to highlight African American culture and history. Schools, museums, cultural organizations, and communities hold events such as lectures, art exhibits, musical performances, and discussions focused on the achievements and contributions of African Americans.

Each year, a theme is selected by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) to guide the celebrations. In addition to public events, many media outlets, organizations, and institutions host special programming, such as documentaries, films, and interviews, to share African American stories and raise awareness about the ongoing fight for civil rights and equality.

In Which Countries is Black History Month Celebrated?

While Black History Month is most widely celebrated in the United States and Canada, the observance has spread to other countries, including the United Kingdom, Ireland, and the Netherlands.

• United States: February is officially recognized as Black History Month, with schools, cultural institutions, and public organizations hosting events to celebrate African American achievements and history.
• Canada: Black History Month was officially recognized in Canada in 1995 by the House of Commons, and it is observed throughout February, with a focus on the contributions of Black Canadians.
• United Kingdom and Ireland: Black History Month is celebrated in October, with a similar focus on the contributions of people of African and Caribbean descent.
• The Netherlands: Black History Month is also observed in October, with events that highlight the history of African Dutch communities and their contributions to the nation’s culture.

In all of these countries, the month serves as an opportunity to reflect on the struggles and triumphs of African descent communities, fostering understanding, recognition, and appreciation for their historical impact.