Black History Month
What is Black History Month?
Occuring in Feburary, Black History Month is one month in a year that has been dedicated to honour Black people throughout history such as Martin Luther King Jr., Thurgood Marshall, Barack Obama, and others. This month is used to celebrate cultural heritage, triumphs, and adavarseries of African Americans with a new theme each year. Since the creation of Black History Month in the United States, other countries including Canada, United Kingdom, Germany, and the Netherlands have joined in on celebrating this month.
Why Februrary?
Because both the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass occur in Feburary!
Lincoln, America’s sixteenth president, opposed slavery as far as engagin in civil war and a heavily influencial figure in the emancipation of slaves. Frederick Douglass was an African-American and leader of abolitionist movement in Massachussets and New York.
The theme of 2022 is Black Health and Awarness
This year, the main focus will be placed on honouring Black medical scholars and healthcare providers as well as acknowledging their effects. Attention is also placed on how American Healthcare underserves the African American Community. Important events are highlighted such as negative impact of lack of healthcare access, hospitals in the Jim Crow Era, negative influences of slavery, and eventual desegregation.
Development of Black History Month
Before Black History Month, a Negro History week founded by Carter G. Woodson existed. The celebration took place the second week of February, and eventually evolved into Black History Month in 1976. President Ford extended the time in order to account for more neglected accommplishents of African-Amercian people.
Importance
Although segregation no longer exists as an official regulation, racisms and discrimination still exist in the society. Black History Month inspires people to celebrate gradual social development and gives reminder that heritage is not something to be ashamed of. People are called to action to advocate for unresolved problems regarding racial issues. Most importantly, the significance of African-Americans in our communities are embraced.
