What is Black History Month?

Black History Month, also called African American History Month, is a monthlong commemoration of African American history and achievement that takes place each February in the United States. It officially began in 1976.

The idea for a Black History Month was first conceived by the historian Carter G. Woodson and members of his Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (now the Association for the Study of African American Life and History). Together they organized a Negro History Week, beginning in February 1926. They selected the month of February for this celebration because it was close to the birthdays of U.S. President Abraham Lincoln, who was responsible for the Emancipation Proclamation, and the African American orator and abolitionist Frederick Douglass. During the next 50 years Negro History Week grew in popularity, with American cities initiating their own celebrations of Black achievements and with teachers—particularly in schools with a large percentage of African American students—using class time to discuss contributions to history made by notable African Americans. The civil rights movement also contributed to its popularity. Negro History Week was expanded to become Black History Month in 1976, with U.S. President Gerald Ford urging Americans to participate in its observance.

The theme for 2023 is Black Resistance, which focuses on the history of Black Americans' responses to establish safe spaces, where Black life can be sustained, fortified, and respected.

Sources: Britannica.com, ASAHL

Black History Month at SOM