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.
Please research and report back on the accomplishments of
one of the following people:
Condoleezza Rice
George Washington Carver
Frederick Douglass
Booker T Washington
Louis Armstrong
What did you learn and why did you choose that person?