Celebrating Black History Month at OHS
Black History Month has been celebrated officially every year since 1976 during the month of February and is a time dedicated to celebrating the achievements and sacrifices of African Americans. According to the founder of OHS’s Black Student Union, Kelsey Barnes, Black History Month, in addition to being a time for Black people to feel appreciated, is “a time to reflect on the trials and tribulations that the Black community faces, while also recognizing how the Black community…made something beautiful [from them].”
The Association for the Study of Negro Life and History
In 1915, the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History was created by historian Carter G. Woodson and minister Jesse E. Moorland so that the accomplishments of African Americans and people of African descent were recognized and spotlighted. In 1926, the organization and its founders wanted a “Negro History Week” during the second week of February, since Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass’ birthdays fell on that week. The celebration would be a designated time for Black History to be taught and studied in schools. During the civil rights movement, many organizations, mayors, and colleges began to celebrate Black history for the whole month. The 38th U.S. President, Gerald Ford, made Black History Month official in 1976, and suggested that American citizens should “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”
Shirley Chisholm announcing her entry for Democratic nomination for the presidency in 1972
Many Black actors, authors, politicians, athletes, and activists are celebrated during Black History Month. For example, Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is one of the most popular and well-known figures celebrated during February. Dr. King was one of the many leaders of the U.S. civil rights movement, and with the goal of ending segregation, he participated in the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the 1963 March on Washington all while advocating for nonviolent protests. Unlike Dr. King, there are many influential and powerful Black women that are rarely recognized on a public scale, even during Black History Month. Shirley Chisholm was one of those pioneers as she became the first African American Congresswoman in 1968, was one of the founders of the Congressional Black Caucus, and ran for president in 1972. Another example is Madam C.J. Walker. She was America’s first Black female millionaire because of the success of her homemade hair products that were tailored to Black women. Lastly, Angela Davis is an activist, professor, and author whose inspirational and educational voice stems from her passion for racial justice, criminal justice reform, and women’s rights. Even though all of these people should be recognized for their great contributions to Black history, it is important to remember that Black history isn’t only about the figures from the past and black and white photos. Black history is always relevant and is constantly being added to, not only by celebrities and politicians, but by our own Black neighbors that are consistent examples of strength, courage, and pride.
Barnes says that one of the best ways to participate in Black History Month is to educate yourself and to use that education to recognize and speak up about racial injustices in everyday settings like the workplace or classroom. Learning about the staples of Black culture like streetwear, Black sitcoms, and block parties will showcase elements of Black History that are unique and essential, but usually not taught in schools. Barnes also suggests continuing to celebrate Black history throughout the year by “[giving] public comment to support bills,…tutoring students, donating food, and donating clothes.” Another great way to celebrate would be to participate in the events that the BSU is hosting this month! On 2/11 at 4pm pst, they’re hosting “So, You Think You Known Black Culture?” On 2/18 at 11am pst, guest speakers Torri Jacobus and Aja Brooks will speak about hair discrimination. Finally, on 2/25 at 4pm pst, you can join their movie night where they will watch “The Banker,” the story of two Black entrepreneurs. Celebrating Black history is important because there are many power struggles and racial hierarchies in America’s history, and the remnants and effects of those can be observed today. So, taking the time to educate yourself on a community that isn’t always represented fairly or accurately in the media or school curriculums can slowly make our society a more inclusive, just, and equal one.
Sources:
https://www.history.com/topics/black-history/black-history-month
https://parade.com/1328166/shameikarhymes/african-american-historical-figures/
https://www.thoughtco.com/angela-davis-biography-3528285
https://www.history.com/news/shirley-chisholm-presidential-campaign-george-wallace
https://www.blackpast.org/african-american-history/association-study-african-american-life-and-history-brief-history/