Black History Month has been celebrated since 1976, when it was recognized by President Gerald Ford, it has not even been 50 years, yet the traditions and significance seem to be fading. It was originally created by Carter G. Woodson, “The Father of Black History” in 1926 and it was called “Negro History Week.” Woodson wanted to honor the contributions that Black American’s made to society as well as ensuring that Black achievements were acknowledged and remembered. Woodson wanted to make it known that Black history is American history. The holiday was originally celebrated the second week in February to align with the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and President Abraham Lincoln. Both who significantly contributed to Black History. As a slave, Frederick Douglass never knew his birthday, so he chose the day of love, February 14th. President Lincoln’s birthday is February 12th.
It started off as a week, and eventually expanded into a month, despite the short history, the ways in which people are now celebrating Black History is vastly different, in some cases tradition and history are beginning to disappear. Society has shifted from in dept engagement to social media activism. Schools, elementary all the way to the collegiate level used to host essay contest, Black history reenactments, and lessons on Black leaders throughout the month, some churches followed this tradition as well. Libraries displayed books by Black authors, and local museums had special exhibits to celebrate those who contributed to the arts. Some of these traditions continue in, but in majority of spaces the traditions are dying.
Today, Black history is taught at a surface level, younger generations are only learning about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr and Rosa Parks and in some cases Malcom X if they are lucky. Many people do not know the history of Black History Month or the person responsible for creating it. The lesser known but equally influential Black leaders are not discussed. Instead of physical gatherings to commemorate Black history, most things are online now, social media has helped spread awareness, but Black History month can now be seen as more performative. Despite challenges, there are some traditions that remain the same. Families are creating their own tradition and organizations like the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) founded by Carter G. Woodson, are still dedicated to the mission of educating the community on Black leaders and their accomplishments.
Communities have an obligation to continue to encourage the original mission of Black history month, old traditions may die but new ones need to begin to breathe new life. Honoring Black history should not be confined to fit into 28 days, but an everyday practices, discussions, and education. The goal should be celebration and action, ensuring that Black history is remembered and used as foundation for progress.
[Photo: flickr]
