February is Black History Month in the United States. It’s also a time to reflect on the contributions African Americans have made to our culture. The first Black History Month took place in the U.S. in 1926, after the scholar Carter G. Woodson first proposed it in 1915. At the time, the term “Negro History Week” was used. The first week of February was chosen to coincide with the birthdays of two men: Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States, and Frederick Douglass, an African American social reformer. Although many people across the U.S. have heard of Black History Month, many are unaware of its historical origins.
The story of African-Americans is in many ways a very American story. It is a story of adversity, of perseverance, of sacrifice, of progress, of renewal. It is a story of America. There is no other group in American history that has had more influence on the country than African-Americans, or that has contributed more to who we are today. We are a life-giving people. We are a people who have shaped every element of this nation. We are a people who have fought for freedom and equality since the beginning of this nation. We are a people who have contributed to the growth of this nation in many unique and special ways. We are a people who have been at the helm of every movement for freedom and justice.
African Americans have contributed so many things to the United States. Our history is rich and even though we as a people have gone through several trials and tribulations, the Lord always allows us to prevail! Black History is not just a month but it is an everyday thing for me!
