People often question why Black History Month happens in February, the shortest month in the calendar year.
Black History Month is celebrated in February because it coincides with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, two prominent figures in American history who played significant roles in ending slavery. Historian Carter G. Woodson chose February to highlight their importance and because Black communities were already celebrating their birthdays during this time.
“There was no negative reason for February’s selection,” said Burnis R. Morris, a professor of journalism and mass communications at Marshall University and a biographer of Carter G. Woodson. Carter G. Woodson was the creator of Negro History Week and would later be called “The Father of Black History Month.”
As founder of the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History, Woodson was intent on changing the perception of and altering the trajectory of Black Americans.
He wrote five Black history textbooks, conducted home study courses, and developed a teacher’s journal to help teachers teach Black history.
Black educators and students at Kent State University in Portage County, Ohio, proposed the first Black History Month in February 1969. In 1976, President Gerald Ford proclaimed it an official national celebration.
“We can seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor through our history,” Woodson said at the time.
Since then, every U.S. president has officially designated February Black
History Month. Other countries around the world, including Canada and the United Kingdom, have followed suit: Canada celebrates in February as well, while the U.K. observes it in October.
We are aware that Black History is American History as we continue to celebrate Liberty and justice for all.
By Gwen Marshall,
UniteNews Contributing Writer
