The Beginning

Black History Month Day 1. Where should we begin? Ah, yes, the beginning.

National African American History Month, most notably known as Black History Month, started as Negro History Week in 1926 when Carter G. Woodson decided enough was enough! Woodson believed that education of the time had some *many* shortcomings as it pertained to teaching young African Americans the history and heritage of their ancestors. In other words, you could say he felt they were being…mis-educated. No? Too on the nose? 🤷🏾‍♀️

Woodson set out to change the narrative and created and opportunity for his people to be educated AND celebrated. In 1924, With the help of his fraternity, Omega Psi Phi, Woodson founded Negro History and Literature Week. However, that did not pacify him for long and he knew he could do much more. So, in 1926 Woodson founded Negro History week. He sent out a press release announcing the start of the celebration and honestly the rest was history. The celebration took hold and gained popularity well into the 1960’s and on the 50th Anniversary of Negro History week in 1976, Black History Month was born.

As it stands today, Black History Month is the oldest celebration of history at 94 years!

“…let us reflect on the sacrifices and contributions made by generations of African Americans, and let us resolve to continue our march toward a day when every person knows the unalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.“

— 44th President of the United States Barack Obama

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