Every February, Black History Month is recognized as a time to celebrate, honour, and reflect on the rich history, culture, and contributions of Black people throughout history. It is not just a month of acknowledgment but a crucial reminder of the struggles, triumphs, and ongoing fight for equality.
For some, Black History Month is an opportunity to educate themselves about historical figures beyond what traditional history books cover. For others, it is a time to take pride in their heritage and the progress that has been made. But beyond celebration, Black History Month also serves as a call to action, to keep pushing for justice, representation, and change.
The Origins of Black History Month
Black History Month began as “Negro History Week” in 1926, founded by Dr. Carter G. Woodson, a historian, scholar, and educator who is often called the “Father of Black History.” Woodson, along with the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History, recognized the lack of representation of Black contributions in American history. His goal was to ensure that Black Americans were recognized as an integral part of the country’s history.
The second week of February was chosen for Negro History Week because it coincided with the birthdays of two key figures in Black history. Frederick Douglass, an escaped slave turned abolitionist leader, and Abraham Lincoln, who signed the Emancipation Proclamation. Over time, the week-long celebration gained traction, and by 1976, it officially expanded into Black History Month, recognized nationally by President Gerald Ford.
Today, Black History Month is observed in multiple countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Germany, each adapting it to recognize Black achievements in their own history.
Why Black History Month is Still Necessary
Despite the progress made in racial equality, there are still many reasons why Black History Month remains essential in today’s society.
1. Acknowledging Contributions That Shaped the World
Black individuals have made significant contributions to science, art, literature, politics, music, sports, and beyond, yet their stories are often overlooked. Figures like Madam C.J. Walker, the first self-made female millionaire in the U.S., Garrett Morgan, who invented the traffic light, and Dr. Patricia Bath, who pioneered laser cataract surgery, are just a few examples of Black innovators whose work has shaped our daily lives. Black History Month ensures that these contributions are recognized, celebrated, and remembered.
2. Addressing Historical Erasure and Misrepresentation
For decades, history books have minimized or excluded Black experiences, often reducing them to just slavery and the Civil Rights Movement. While these are critical parts of history, they are not the full story. Black history is global, diverse, and rich with innovation, culture, and leadership.
Black History Month helps correct these omissions by shining a light on stories that have been historically ignored, such as the Tuskegee Airmen, the Harlem Renaissance, and the contributions of Black soldiers in World War II.
3. Educating Future Generations
Without proper education on Black history, future generations may grow up unaware of the struggles and victories that shaped society today. Schools and institutions play a crucial role in ensuring that Black history is not confined to just one month but integrated into education year-round.
By learning about figures like Harriet Tubman, Malcolm X, Shirley Chisholm, and John Lewis, young people gain a better understanding of how past movements influence today’s social justice efforts.
4. Inspiring Change and Continuing the Fight for Equality
Black History Month is not just about remembering the past, it is about learning from history to shape the future. While there has been progress, systemic racism, inequality, and discrimination still persist in areas like the criminal justice system, education, and healthcare.
Celebrating Black history is also about acknowledging ongoing struggles and working toward real solutions. It serves as a time to reflect on how we can continue pushing for diversity, inclusion, and equity in all areas of society.
How Black History Month is Celebrated
Different communities and organizations celebrate Black History Month in unique ways, but common activities include:
1. Educational Events and Discussions
Schools, universities, and cultural institutions host lectures, panels, and workshops about Black history, activism, and achievements. These events provide a space to learn, ask questions, and engage in meaningful conversations about race, identity, and progress.
2. Honouring Black Artists, Writers, and Musicians
From Maya Angelou and Toni Morrison in literature to Miles Davis and Nina Simone in music, Black creatives have shaped culture worldwide. Many libraries, bookstores, and streaming platforms highlight Black authors, filmmakers, and musicians during Black History Month.
3. Supporting Black-Owned Businesses
An impactful way to celebrate is by supporting Black entrepreneurs. Whether it’s buying from a Black-owned restaurant, shopping at a Black-owned bookstore, or using services from Black professionals, economic empowerment plays a key role in promoting racial equity.
4. Visiting Museums and Historical Sites
Museums dedicated to Black history, such as the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C., offer powerful exhibits on Black experiences. If travel isn’t an option, virtual museum tours and online archives make it easy to explore Black history from anywhere.
5. Engaging in Activism and Community Service
Supporting Black communities through volunteering, donating, or advocating for policies that address racial disparities is another meaningful way to honour Black History Month.
How to Celebrate Black History Beyond February
While February is dedicated to Black history, the lessons and actions shouldn’t stop when the month ends. Here’s how you can continue celebrating Black excellence year-round:
Read Black literature and follow Black historians and activists on social media to continue learning.
Advocate for diverse curriculums in schools to ensure that Black history is taught beyond just one month.
Support Black voices in media, whether through films, podcasts, or journalism.
Engage in conversations about race and history in your workplace, community, and personal life.
Vote and support policies that aim to reduce racial disparities and uplift marginalized communities.
Black History Month is more than just a celebration! It is a reminder of where we have been, where we are now, and where we still need to go. It is a time to honour the past, amplify Black voices, and take action toward a more inclusive future.
By recognizing and uplifting Black achievements not just in February, but throughout the year, we ensure that history is not forgotten, erased, or rewritten. Instead, we acknowledge that Black history is an essential part of global history, shaping the world we live in today.
So, this Black History Month, take the time to learn, reflect, and act because Black history is not just for one month… it’s for a lifetime.