Dear LA Teacher,
Why is February Black History Month?
Curious Student
Dear Curious Student,
Actually, historian Dr. Carter G. Woodson initially called Black History Month “Negro History Week.” The son of former slaves, Woodson was one of the first African-Americans to receive a doctorate degree from Harvard University. Woodson made it his life’s work to ensure Black History was taught in schools and studied by scholars.
In 1926 Woodson chose the second week of February as Black History Week to honor the birthdays of two historically supportive figures of the Black cause—Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglas. The purpose of the week was to make early 20th Century Americans aware of the important contributions made by Black Americans throughout US history.
Thanks to the Civil Rights movement during the 1950s and 60s, deepening understanding of the contribution to American society by African-Americans began to crystalize. Negro History Week morphed into Black History Month. At first this began on college campuses until things changed with President Gerald Ford. President Ford said, “Seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”
Since President Ford’s proclamation, every US president has officially designated February as Black History Month and endorsed a theme. President Obama has declared this year’s theme to honor black women and how they have shaped the US and its history.
Best wishes,
LA Teacher
Have a question about school or home? Ask LA Teacher at writinghigh2009@gmail.com. Take the time to visit his website at http://www.childcontrolled.com/.
Comments