Yesteryear A Return to
B lack History Month, also called African American History Month, celebrates the achievements of those of Black heritage and honors their significant historical contribu- tions. Noted Harvard-trained histo- rian Carter G. Woodson and other prominent African Americans are credited with the creation of “Negro History Month,” which evolved and expanded to include recognition of all Black cultures. Woodson was among the first scholars to study the history of the African diaspora, expressing pride in his heritage and history. Dr. Woodson and minister Jesse E. Moorland founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History, created to research and promote the achievements of Black Americans and peoples of African descent. The group is known as the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH). In 1926, ASALH sponsored a national “Negro History
Week” to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. This inspired schools and communities to create history clubs, promote education, support lectures, and organize local events. Since 1976, American presidents have designated February as Black History Month. President Gerald Ford was the first to recognize Black History Month, asking the public to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.” Many coun- tries, including Canada and the United Kingdom, dedicate a month to cele- brating the accomplishments of Black history pioneers. The triumphs of African Americans have not come without struggle. Part of the tough journey for Black Amer- icans includes the Civil Rights Move- ment, which occurred in the US from
1954 to 1968. Then, efforts to abol- ish institutional racial segregation, discrimination, and disenfranchise- ment existed. During that tumultuous period of American history, nonvio- lence, nonviolent resistance, and civil disobedience (refusal to cooperate with unjust laws) took hold to stop racism, promote equality in the eyes of the law, and effect social change. The annual observance of Black History Month acknowledges the legacy of great contributors to a fair and improved society, including Harriet Tubman, Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and countless others. As the achievements of the Black community are steadfast, widespread, timeless, and limitless, recognition is encouraged to extend beyond a sole day, a single week, and a specific month to include deep appreciation all year long.
Photo: From left to right - Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, Jackie Robinson
42 • AMAC Magazine
Powered by FlippingBook