
Each February the United States observes Black History Month. This month is intended to honor the history, struggles, and triumphs of black people in America and across the world.
Historian Dr. Carter G. Woodson, the son of freed slaves, was concerned that black children were not being taught about their ancestors’ accomplishments in school. In 1926, he and his organization, the Association for the Study of Negro Life, announced that the second week of February would be set aside as Negro History Week. This week includes President Lincoln’s birthday (2/12) and the day Frederick Douglass celebrated his birth (2/14).
Fifty years later, under President Gerald R. Ford, the celebration was expanded to encompass the entire month of February and became known as Black History Month. President Ford urged Americans to, “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”
This month, consider supporting one of these highly-rated organizations that are working diligently to promote black health, education, rights and community development in the United States, and celebrate the values of this important month.