WHAT IS BLACK HISTORY MONTH?

Black history Month is an annual observance which originated in the United States. It received official recognition from governments in the United States and Canada, and more recently has been observed in Ireland and the United Kingdom.

When is Black History Month? It is the entire month of February. It has been observed for almost 53 years.

The colors of black history month are black, red, yellow, and green. These colors symbolize unity and pride.

When did it originate? It originated in 1915 when historian and author G. Woodson founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History. This is an organization also known as ASALH.

When the commemoration first began, the primary emphasis was placed on encouraging the coordinated teaching of the history of Black Americans in the nation’s public schools.

In February 1969, black educators and students at Kent State University first proposed Black History Month. The first celebration at Kent State took place a year later.

Six years later, Black History Month was being celebrated all across the country in educational institutions, centers of Black culture, and community centers.

When President Gerald Ford recognized Black History Month in 1976, during the celebration of the United States Bicentennial, he urged Americans to, “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”

MEMORABLE QUOTES

“Darkness can not drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that.” – Martin Luther King, Jr.

“I was raised to believe that excellence is the best deterrent to racism or sexism. And that’s how I operate my life.” – Oprah Winfrey

“One of the lessons that I grew up with was to always stay true to yourself and never let what somebody else says distract you from your goals. And so when I hear about negative and false attacks, I really don’t invest any energy in them, because I know who I am.” – Michelle Obama

“We need to internalize this idea of excellence. Not many folks spend a lot of time trying to be excellent.” – Barack Obama

“The soul that is within me no man can degrade.” – Frederick Douglass

“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.” – Harriet Tubman

“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” – Martin Luther King, Jr.