2023 Black History Month Celebrating “Black Resistance” in African American History!

Every year in February we celebrate Black History Month. Since 1976, this annual celebration has recognized and honored the triumphs and struggles of African Americans and the role they played in shaping our country’s history.

Did you know?

• Black History Month started out as a week in 1915 when Harvard-educated historian Carter G. Woodson and minister Jesse Moorland founded what’s known as the Association for the Study of African American Life and history. Negro History Week was established in 1926 and recognized the 2^nd week in February
• February was chosen to coincide with the birthdays of President Abraham Lincoln and Fredrick Douglas
• The civil rights movement of the 1960s helped elevate Negro History Week to national prominence and turn it into a month-long celebration. President Gerald Ford made things official in 1976 when February was officially recognized as be Black History Month.
• Black History Month is celebrated in the U.S. and Canada. In the UK, October marks the beginning of Black History Month. This national celebration promotes and celebrates the contributions of those with African and Caribbean heritage to British society and to foster an understanding of Black history in general.

While this information provides an opportunity to dig deeper into connections with the past, it’s also a reminder of the importance of providing a full and inclusive history in society, ensuring opportunities to learn about the history and contributions of all Americans throughout the year.

To learn more, visit the websites below:

Black History Month 2023: Facts, Origins & More | HISTORY - HISTORY

Five Fascinating Facts About Black History Month | Front Range Community College Blog

Black History Month