As we come to the end of Black History Month, I felt that it was important to highlight the importance of the month and why it’s so important for the Black community.
Black history month was started in 1926 by Carter G. Woodson as Negro History Week to celebrate the accomplishments that were being made by the community for the entire country. It was also to educate others about Black history and the very underrepresented culture. In 1976, President Ford recognized it and designated February as the official month to celebrate Black History Month. As years have passed, this tradition has grown much bigger and farther than, I assume, Woodson could have imagined.
All year long Black people and their allies celebrate the culture, history, and importance of what it is to be Black. However, in the month of February as it is said modernly, “it hits different.” In schools, churches, sports, and other communities, the focus of February is on Black Joy.
Yes, it is important to talk about the history going all the way back to before slavery. It is important to talk about the issues that the Black community still faces to this day. However, during Black history month, people don’t want to constantly be reminded about how things should be and what they are missing. Instead, we focus on the joy of it all.
We focus on:
- Black Entrepreneurship
- Black Artists and performers
- Underrepresented individuals who are doing their part in society
- Family and friends
- Love and encouragement, and
- Anything else that is seen in the culture that brings joy
Although the month is coming to a close, there is still time to celebrate Black History Month and the joy that comes with it. In fact, you can celebrate all of March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December, January, and again in February. The point being, although it’s on the calendar for only 28 days, feel free to celebrate for 365. The rest of us do!
