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Yahoo
21-02-2025
- General
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Why is Black History Month in February?
(NewsNation) — The origin of Black History Month in America goes back more than 100 years. Some may wonder why February, the shortest month of the year, was chosen to be the month to celebrate Black history. Here is the origin of Black History Month and how it is celebrated each year. Black church's role in civil rights, social justice continues to grow According to the Library of Congress, the start of Black History Month dates back to 1915, when author and historian Dr. Carter G. Woodson founded the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH). It was through this organization that Woodson initiated the first 'Negro History Week' in 1926. Woodson chose a week in February since it coincided with the birthdays of President Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, two key figures in Black American history. In 1975, President Gerald Ford issued a message recognizing the week and urged all Americans to 'recognize the important contribution made to our nation's life and culture by black citizens.' The following year in 1976, ASALH extended the commemoration from a weeklong observation to an entire month. In 1986, Congress passed Public Law 99-244, which designated February 1986 as 'National Black (Afro-American) History Month.' The law recognized Feb. 1 of that year as the start of the 60th annual public and private salute to Black history. Afterschool program uplifting Chicago students' voices through music Each year, the ASALH chooses a theme for Black History Month, which is a practice Woodson started. This year's theme is 'African Americans and Labor.' According to the organization, the theme focuses on the types of labor African Americans have provided throughout the country's history, which includes 'free and unfree, skilled, and unskilled, vocational and voluntary.' The theme aims to inspire reflections on the connections between the work of Black individuals and their various workplaces, highlighting significant moments, themes and events in Black history and culture across time and geography. Since 1996, presidents have issued annual proclamations for National Black History Month, and in February of 1996, the Senate passed Senate Resolution 229, commemorating the month and the contributions of Black senators. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
19-02-2025
- General
- Yahoo
How students drove the creation of Black History Month
'If a race has no history, if it has no worthwhile tradition, it becomes a negligible factor in the thought of the world, and it stands in danger of being exterminated.' — Carter G. Woodson I began with a quote from Dr. Woodson because I want readers to know who he was and what motivated him to lay the groundwork for what would eventually become Black History Month, first celebrated at Kent State University. Woodson established what is now the Association for the Study of African American Life and History in 1915 along with William D. Hartgrove, George Cleveland Hall, Alexander L. Jackson and James E. Stamps. In January 1916, he began publication of what is now The Journal of African American History. In 1926, he pioneered the celebration of Negro History Week during the second week of February to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. It is important to understand that Woodson was operating during a period of rising Black self-consciousness that was being expressed in movements such as the Harlem/New Negro Renaissance and by Marcus Garvey's Universal Negro Improvement Association. I arrived at Kent State University as a first-year student in September 1970 on the day campus reopened after the shootings that previous May and two years after Black United Students (BUS) walked off campus in protest demanding what is now the Department of Africana Studies and the Center of Pan-African Culture (CPAC). I was a naïve, wide-eyed and anxious 18-year-old. I remember being swept up into BUS and being groomed by upperclassmen who had participated in the 1968 'walkout.' I was mesmerized and in absolute awe of the militant group spirit they exuded. When Dwayne White (aka Ibrahim Al-Khafiz) and Carl Gregory (aka Saiti Dihati) approached Dr. Edward Crosby, director of the Institute for African American Affairs (IAAA), and Dr. Milton Wilson, the dean for Human Relations, to propose that programming for Negro History Week be extended throughout the month of February, BUS was acting in concert with a larger Black student/Black studies movement that was sweeping the country at that time. Like Woodson before them, they believed, 'Those who have no record of what their forebears have accomplished lose the inspiration which comes from the teaching of biography and history.' A case can be made that the civil rights and Black consciousness movements inspired other marginalized groups in the United States to awaken and to claim their legitimate places in this society. The celebrations of women's history, Native American heritage and Hispanic heritage are not coincidental. At Kent State, students can now engage the Women's Center, the E. Timothy Moore Student Multicultural Center and the LGBTQ+ Center. The Department of Africana Studies (formerly the IAAA) and the Center of Pan-African Studies are housed in Oscar Ritchie Hall — named after KSU's first African American professor. It can also be argued that the current 'Make America Great Again' culture war is designed to roll back the social progress that has been achieved over the last 55 years. Race is still the elephant in the room. The weaponization of ignorance is the real danger in these treacherous yet exciting times. The fabricated battle over critical race theory, the banning of books, the attack on African American history in Florida and assaults on 'too woke' colleges, DEI initiatives and the fundamentals of academic freedom are being waged to conserve an archaic status quo that was never intended to embrace 21st century American realities. For those BUS students who transformed Negro History Week into Black History Month in February 1970, Woodson's book, 'The Mis-Education of the Negro,' was an strong influence. He wrote: '… [T]aught the same economics, history, philosophy, literature and religion which have established the present code of morals, the Negro's mind has been brought under the control of his oppressor. The problem of holding the Negro down, therefore, is easily solved.' For us, the study of the history and contributions of Africans, not only here in America but throughout the world, was the real point. Our quest was to acquire a true education that would help us to become better human beings and to achieve what the Yoruba people of West Africa call 'Iwa-Pele,' which means 'good and gentle character.' Embracing Black History Month can help this nation to learn about major chapters of the true story of how America became great. Black life does matter. Professor Mwatabu S. Okantah is chair of the Department of Africana Studies at Kent State University. This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: How, where and why Black History Month started | Opinion
Yahoo
05-02-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Why is Black History Month in February? History, theme and how to celebrate in Texas
The origin of the month-long commemoration known as Black History Month goes back almost a century ago. For those who don't know the history, some may wonder why Black history is recognized in February, the shortest month of the year. Here are the origins of Black History Month, including the history associated with Texas. According to the Library of Congress, the inception of Black History Month dates back to 1915. Long before Black History Month was nationally recognized, Dr. Carter G. Woodson — founder of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History — initiated the first "Negro History Week" in February 1926. Woodson, whose parents were enslaved, grew up to be an author, historian and the second African American to earn a Ph.D. at Harvard University. Woodson, known to many as the 'Father of Black History," chose February to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, two significant figures in Black American history. In 1975, President Gerald Ford issued a message on the Observance of Black History Week, encouraging all Americans to "recognize the important contributions made to our nation's life and culture by Black citizens." The following year, in 1976, the ASALH extended this commemoration from a week-long observance to a month-long celebration, now known as Black History Month. In 1986, Congress enacted Public Law 99-244, officially designating February 1986 as "National Black (Afro-American) History Month." The law recognized February 1, 1986, as the start of the 60th annual public and private tribute to Black history. It also authorized and requested that the president issue a proclamation urging the people of the United States to observe Black History Month with appropriate ceremonies and activities. Each year, ASALH identifies a theme for Black History Month. This year's theme is "African Americans and Labor." According to ASALH, the theme prioritizes the types of labor African Americans have provided throughout the country's history, including "free and unfree, skilled, and unskilled, vocational and voluntary." The theme aims to inspire comprehensive reflections on the connections between the work of Black individuals and their various workplaces, highlighting significant moments, themes, and events in Black history and culture across time and geography, particularly within the U.S., Africa, and the Diaspora, the ASALH website says. Here's a list of past Black History Month themes, according to ASALH: 2024: African Americans and the Arts 2023: Black Resistance 2022: Black Health and Wellness 2021: The Black Family: Representation, Identity, and Diversity 2020: African Americans and the Vote 2019: Black Migrations 2018: African Americans in Times of War 2017: The Crisis in Black Education 2016: Hallowed Grounds: Sites of African American Memories 2015: A Century of Black Life, History, and Culture According to the Museum of African American History and Culture, Texas was the last state where enslaved people officially gained freedom after the end of the Civil War. On June 19, 1865, nearly two years after President Abraham Lincoln emancipated enslaved Africans in America, 2,000 Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas, with news of freedom. Over 250,000 African Americans embraced freedom by executive decree in what became known as Juneteenth or Emancipation Day. It is celebrated annually on June 19. On June 17, 2021, President Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law. While Black History Month is commemorated in February, celebrating and learning more about the history doesn't have to stop there. There are several places in Texas to educate yourself about Black history. Here is a list of places throughout Texas where you can learn and behold Black History Month and beyond. The African American Museum in Dallas The Juanita J. Craft Civil Rights House and Museum The Houston Museum of African American Culture George Washington Carver Museum, Cultural and Genealogy Center in Austin McCall Neighborhood Center in El Paso Littles-Martin House in Corpus Christi — USA TODAY reporter Amaris Encinas contributed to this report. This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Why is Black History Month in February? How to celebrate in Texas
Yahoo
05-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Why is Black History Month recognized? How to Celebrate in Chicago
The Brief Black History Month serves as an opportunity to learn about African American history and culture Black History Month began as Negro History Week in February 1926 There are a variety of ways to celebrate Black History Month in Chicago Chicago - February 1 marks the beginning of Black History Month, a month dedicated to celebrating and recognizing the significant achievements and contributions African Americans have made to United States history. Black History Month serves as an opportunity to educate people on African American history and culture. It celebrates their impact across various fields such as civil rights, science, politics, the arts, and more. Dig deeper: Black History Month began as Negro History Week in February 1926, created by historian Carter G. Woodson to educate people about African American history. After Woodson's death in 1950, members of the Omega Psi Phi fraternity worked to promote the week and advocated for its extension to a month. President Gerald R. Ford officially recognized their efforts in 1976, creating Black History Month. February marks the birth month of two prominent figures in Black History, President Abraham Lincoln, who issued the Emancipation Proclamation, and Fredrick Douglass, an African American abolitionist. What they're saying: Black History Month continues to be observed annually in the United States. In a recent proclamation, President Trump stated, "Today, I am very honored to recognize February 2025 as National Black History Month…" he continued, "I call upon public officials, educators, librarians, and all the people of the United States to observe this month with appropriate programs, ceremonies and activities." Celebrating Black History Month in Chicago offers a variety of opportunities to immerse yourself in the history. Here are a few ways to get involved. Attend Events and Performances: Look for local events, such as lectures, panel discussions, and performances. Support Black-Owned Businesses: Support Black entrepreneurship by visiting Black-owned restaurants, shops, and businesses throughout the city. Visit Museums and Cultural Institutions: Explore exhibits at the DuSable Museum of African American History. The Source This report includes information from the Associated Press, the NAACP and previous LiveNow from FOX reporting.
Yahoo
31-01-2025
- General
- Yahoo
In Honor of Black History Month, 30 Black History Facts You May Not Be Aware Of
From trailblazers to inventors, Olympians, and politicians, numerous Black historical figures have left their marks on American history for decades. Unfortunately, a lot of their accomplishments are unsung and under-acknowledged. Their achievements were silenced under the weight of slavery and Jim Crow segregation laws. Despite the ugly side of history and its racial divide, African Americans still managed to pave the way for historical landmark moments even today. From laying down the blueprint for safety measures that you use daily, like the elevator and traffic lights, to the diversity that we can now watch on television, Black history is rich in America. So, in honor of Black History Month, here are some well-known and little-known facts that you may not have known. Related: 1. Dr. Carter G. Woodson, known as the "Father of Black History," started the first Negro History Week in 1926 to ensure students would learn Black history. It grew into Black History Month starting in 1976. 2. William Tucker was the first known Black person to be born in the 13 colonies. He was born near Jamestown, Virginia, in 1624. His parents were indentured servants, and part of the first group of Africans brought to colonial soil by Great Britain. In 1634, his parents participated in the establishment of Elizabeth City County, Virginia, which is now the city of Hampton. 3. In 1738, a group of newly freed men and women founded the town Gracia Real De Santa Teresa De Mose, Florida. There were an estimated 100 people in the town's population. Just two miles away from St. Augustine, it's considered to be the first-ever free Black settlement in the U.S. It was abandoned following the Seven Years' War in 1763. In 1994, it was designated a National Historic Landmark. 4. It's estimated that around 100,000 slaves escaped to the North via the Underground Railroad between 1810 and 1850. 5. On July 2, 1777, Vermont became the first colony to ban slavery. Vermont's legislature agreed to abolish slavery entirely, and it also moved to provide full voting rights for African American males. 6. Educator and abolitionist was the first Black woman to graduate from college. She completed a ladies' literary program and graduated from Oberlin College in 1850. Her commencement speech was an appeal for anti-slavery. 7. Allensworth is the first all-Black Californian township founded and financed by African Americans. Created by Lieutenant Colonel Allen Allensworth in 1908, the town was built with the intention of establishing a self-sufficient city where African Americans could live their lives free of prejudice. 8. Cathay Williams was the first and only known female Buffalo Soldier. Williams was born into slavery and worked for the Union Army during the Civil War. She posed as a man and enlisted as William Cathay in the 38th infantry in 1866 and was given a medical discharge in 1868. Related: 30 Black Historical Figures To Celebrate During Black History Month 9. George "Crum" Speck, a chef and restaurant owner, is said to have created the potato chip by accident during the summer of 1853. However, his sister, Kate, claimed she actually created the chip after a potato slice fell into a hot frying pan creating the famous Saratoga chips. Crum's chips remained a local delicacy in New York until the 1920s, when a salesman named Herman Lay (yes, of Lays chips) began traveling throughout the south and introducing potato chips to different communities. 10. Garrett Morgan's inventions continue to save lives. His take on the traffic signal, which he patented in 1922, was the first to offer a third "caution" signal, which is now known as the yellow light. Take his traffic signal, which he patented in 1922. In 1912, Morgan received a patent for his "Breathing Device," which was one of the earliest versions of a gas mask. He was also the first African American man to own a car in Cleveland, Ohio. 11. Alexander Miles's elevator design made riding on elevators safer. Previously, elevators were operated manually; people had to consciously open and close the doors of both the elevator and the shaft every time. In 1887, Miles obtained the patent for his invention, including a flexible belt attached to the elevator cage, allowing the doors to function automatically. He was inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame in 2007. 12. Mary Beatrice Davidson Kenner patented the sanitary belt in 1957, even though she created it in the 1920s. The belt was adjustable and had a moisture-proof napkin pocket, which helped to hold pads in place from causing leakage. 13. Agricultural scientist George Carver was responsible for developing 300 new products made from peanuts, including milk, flour, ink, soap, medicinal oils and cosmetics. He created 118 products from sweet potatoes, including flour, vinegar, ink and postage stamp glue. 14. Computer scientist and engineer Mark Dean is a co-inventor of IBM's original personal computer and the PC color monitor, which changed the face of technology. He also co-created the technology that enables printers, keyboards, disk drives and monitors to be plugged directly into computers. 15. Founded in 1984, The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo is the only touring African American rodeo in the world. 16. In 2012, at the London Olympics, Gabby Douglas became the first Black gymnast to win an Olympic gold medal in gymnastics, as well as the first U.S. gymnast to win the all-around and team titles at the same Olympic Games. 17. On September 7, 1960, Wilma Rudolph made Olympic history by becoming the first woman (and the first African American woman) to win three gold medals. She became known as the fastest woman in the world. 18. In 1996, Sheryl Swoopes became the first player to sign with the WNBA, with the league debuting a year later. Related: 75 James Baldwin Quotes That Tell the Story of Black America 19. was assassinated on 's birthday, on April 4, 1968. Angelou stopped celebrating her birthday for years afterward, and sent flowers to King's widow, Coretta Scott King, for more than 30 years, until Coretta's death in 2006. 20. The Godfather of Soul, James Brown, performed in front of a televised audience in Boston the day after Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. Brown is credited for preventing further riots with the performance. 21. was the first African American ever elected to the U.S. Senate. He represented the state of Mississippi from February 1870 to March 1871. 22. Before former President Barack Obama took office, George Edwin Taylor paved the way when he ran for president as a member of the National Negro Liberty Party in 1904. 23. African American fashion designer Ann Lowe designed the ivory silk taffeta wedding dress of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis when she married President John F. Kennedy. 24. Robert Johnson became the first African American billionaire when he sold the cable station he founded, Black Entertainment Television (BET), in 2001. Related: 42 Best Black Comedy Movies of All-Time 25. The cartoon character Betty Boop was based on Esther Jones, a Harlem-based jazz singer. Jones was known for her use of "boops" in her singing, which was called a child-like scat. 26. The Proud Family was Disney Channel's first original animated series about the life of a young Black girl, 14-year-old Penny Proud. 27. In 1940, Hattie McDaniel became the first Black person to win an Oscar for her supporting role in Gone With the Wind. 24 years later, Sidney Poitier became the first Black man to win an Oscar for his leading role in Lilies of the Field. 28. Hailed as "Hip-Hop's First Godmother," singer and music producer Sylvia Robinson produced the first-ever commercially successful rap record: "Rapper's Delight" by The Sugarhill Gang. She co-owned the first hip-hop label, Sugar Hill Records, with her husband. 29. Former President Barack Obama has won two Grammy Awards. He was first honored in 2005 for the audio version of his memoir, Dreams From My Father (best-spoken word album), and received his second Grammy (in the same category) in 2007 for his political work, The Audacity of Hope. In 2022, he was nominated for the audio version of his book A Promised Land. 30. The National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM) opened in 2021 and is the only museum dedicated to preserving the legacy and celebrating the accomplishments of the many music genres created, influenced or inspired by African Americans. Up Next:
