What is Black history month?
Martin Luther King once said, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that.” So, it is only fitting that February - a month that celebrates love, is also celebrated as the Black history month. This is the perfect month to remember the history of this title and the story behind it. Besides, if you are planning on visiting the USA to study, why not learn more about the history of the country?
We will be sharing some Black history month facts with you.
How the Black history month came to be celebrated:
The Black history month first started out as a month to remember the important events and people that led the migration of the Black people. Today, this month is the symbol of educating people of any color about the rich history, bravery and achievements of the great people who worked hard to win their freedom from slavery.
The African slavery began around 1619 and continued till 1863. On the December of 6th, 1865, enslavement of the black community officially came to an end. After a whole two hundred and forty-six years, this historical day marks the end of a very painful era for this community and for humanity.
It was Carton Godwin Woodson, who was the founder for the study of African American Life and History. He travelled with many of his friends, from his hometown of Chicago to Washington D.C. to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the emancipation of the Black community. A few thousands of black people travelled there to celebrate the progress that was made since the destruction of slavery.
Even though this day was celebrated, it wasn’t until 1970 that it was officially declared to be National Black history month. A week in February was chosen because there were two birthdays of very influential and important men in the history of the Black community. These men were Frederick Douglas and Abraham Lincoln, born on the 14th and 12th of February respectively.
1619
Journal entry records delivery of slaves to Virginia
1831
Leadership of the anti-slavery movement by Nat Turner
1863
Enactment of the Emancipation Proclamation by Lincoln
1926
Observance of the Negro History week
1976
Observance of the First National Black history month
A little more about Black history month:
Every year, an official new theme gets decided by the ASALH (Association of the study of African Life and History). The theme for 2023 is ‘Black resistance’. The colors associated with Black history monthare black (symbolizing resistance), red (symbolizing the bloodshed of innocent Black people throughout history), yellow (symbolizing justice, equality, and optimism), and green (symbolizing Africa’s abundant greenery and other natural resources).
Some ways to celebrate Black history month include:
- Visit a museum that educates about Black history
- Support Blacked owned businesses by buying their products
- Give your time to Black Nonprofit Organizations.
- Educate yourself more about Black history.
- Be a part of Black History Month events.
If you are not Black and you are here congratulations! You have already taken your first step towards more awareness of Black history month. We hope that you learned something new today and this blog inspires you to act with more empathy and respect toward your peers. Stay tuned for more such articles.