Since 1976, the United States and Canada have recognized
February as Black History Month. The
idea to dedicate time to the contributions of African Americans was originated
in 1926 by Carter G. Woodson. His
vision was to increase the awareness of people and communities to the
significant additions African Americans have made to the overall history of the
United States.
His vision has grown since 1926 to include an entire month
where elementary, junior high and high school students take time to learn about
notable figures and accomplishments of African Americans.
Black History Month’s annual celebration has come with its
fair share of criticism. From
questioning the need to dedicate an entire month to a single race to complaints
about the month chosen being the shortest month of the year, the opinions are
as varied as they can be outlandish.
Regardless, the idea to educate ourselves about the
historical influence countless African Americans have had on our country and communities
is with merit. It is a time to dig past
the dates and names to attempt to put yourself in the shoes of a race of people
who have struggled to gain an equal footing in the United States.
Without Black History Month we may be familiar but not as
cognizant of the incredible feats of Martin Luther King, Jr., Rosa Parks, Jackie
Robinson, or Maya Angelou. The
contributions African Americans have made to the fabric of the United States
are without question.
Throughout the history of the United States which African
Americans have inspired you and why? The
person you choose can be as recent as Tiger Woods or as old as Frederick
Douglas. They person can be real or
fictional. Which stories resonate with
you? For example, Rosa Parks, Jackie
Robinson, or Muhammad Ali.
