Historical Perspective

February is the designated month to celebrate and honor African Americans. Blacks have significantly impacted the development of the social, political, and economic structures of the United States and the world. Credit for the evolving awareness of blacks' proper place in history, in large part, be bestowed on one man, Carter G. Woodson.

Known as the "Father of Black History," Woodson (1875-1950) was the son of former slaves and understood how important gaining a proper education is when striving to secure and make the most out of one's divine right of freedom.

As a visionary, he saw the need to research and document African Americans' many outstanding contributions and pass knowledge and truth to future generations. In 1916, Woodson began publishing the Journal of Negro History, which is still being published and features writings on African American life and culture.

In 1920, Woodson organized the Associated Publishers to serve as a means for African American authors to publish their writings. In 1926, to bring further attention to the beauty, richness, and diversity of African American culture, Woodson created the celebration Negro History Week. In 1976, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) changed the celebration to Black History Month.

Each year the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASAHL) selects a theme to focus the celebration and increase your knowledge about that specific subject with African Americans.

The 2021 theme for Black History Month is The Black Family: Representation, Identity, and Diversity. To join in their virtual activities for the month, check out the activities scheduled on their website at asalh.org.