A lot of youth view Black History Month as an afterthought, just a month to get through, but do you really understand the origin and significance of this month?
The purpose of Black History Month is to give appreciation to the overlooked contributions that African Americans have made throughout American history. The founder of this annual remembrance, Carter G. Woodson, is never even mentioned when talking about this month. He strongly believed that black history should be known and shared by all.
“Carter . G Woodson is also known as the father of African American Studies…pretty much because of the work that he does,” Olivia Cochran, a history teacher, confirmed. In honor of Black History Month, she has spent February watching films featuring black actors and directors.
Originally, Black History Month was called Negro History Week. When it was first starting out, Carter G. Woodson faced backlash from those with racist views, saying that black history should be integrated into American history instead of getting a month of recognition.
“African American contributions are important,” Olivia Cochran asserted. “Studying them are just as important.”
Black History Month is a beautiful month that prompted the creation of many organizations, such as ASALH. Carter G. Woodson himself founded ASALH to encourage the dedicated study of the lives of notable African Americans.
“I like when people are seeking more knowledge about African American [culture] and how different organizations highlight stories that are lesser known…,” Olivia Cochran shared.
Giving homage and remembrance to black history month is essential to giving African Americans their well deserved flowers for their continuous contributions to America. This allows inclusion and representation we don’t always see in media and everyday life.
The more you know, the more you can push back against those who wish to erase Black History Month. To know those who have made big impacts on the month, especially the founder, is something that can we all learn from. You know what they say: “Never underestimate the power of dreams and the influence of the human spirit.”
