“Those who are the happiest are those who do the most for others.”- Booker T. Washington
This year, 2026, marks a century of Black History Month celebrations. From supporting traditional African American culture to indulging in many ways of celebration, Black History Month can help you learn many new things and gain new perspectives.
THE STORY
Black History Month has been a tradition since 1926 when Carter G. Woodson hosted a week of celebration in which black culture, traditions, and accomplishments were celebrated. Woodson was inspired by the 50th anniversary of the emancipation proclamation that he attended in 1915. On September 9th, 1915, Woodson had created an association of African Americans, wich has supported African Americans and hosted many black history month celebrations. The celebrations that Woodson had started had since continued in schools and by African Americans in the area until in 1976 when it had built up enough following of the celebration to make it a month-long dedicated holiday.
Black history month has been taking place in February since the dedication of the month in 1976. February was the month of choice because two main figures, Fredrick Douglass, and Abraham Lincoln, were both born in the month. Fredrick Douglass was a prominent abolitionist and activist, working primarily during the Civil War, writing in his increasingly popular newsletter, the North Star. Douglass has also published many notable books, poetry and given many speeches on African American rights, and anti-slavery topics. On the other hand, Abraham Lincoln was the 16th president of the United States. He was often regarded as the best president because of his actions against slavery during the civil war. He was one of the primary presidents of the Union States during that time and he was known for the many speeches, and debates in support of the abolition of slavery.
CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH
There are many ways to celebrate and support Black History Month. Since its rise in popularity, the month of February has been full of celebration and commemoration. Here are some ways you can celebrate this month!
First off, you can explore the wide range of media, such as films, that African American culture has to offer. Examples of famous movies commemorating the culture and the history are-
Hidden Figures (2016)
This movie follows three African American mathematicians (Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaugn, and Mary Jackson) who worked at NASA in the 1960s. This film shows the work of these three women and how they put people on the moon.
Malcom X (2010)
This movie sheds light on the civil rights leader commonly referred to as Malcom X. This movie follows his life as a rising activist in the civil rights era.
What Happened, Miss Simone?
This is a biography of the singer, Nina Simone. Nina was a popular pianist, singer-songwriter and civil rights activist
Selma (2015)
A historical drama surrounding the life and activism of Martin Luther King Jr. This film also takes a look at the major protest that he led in Selma, Alabama.
Some books that pertain to this topic include:
Four Hundred Souls: A Community History of African America 1619-2019-Ibram X. Kendi, Kiesha N. Blain
This book highlights the story of African Americans from when they arrived at north America up to today.
When Trees Testify: Science, Wisdom, History and America’s Black Botanical Legacy-Bernoda L. Montgomery
Tells the story of African American plant biologists over time. The award-winning author of this book, Bernoda L. Montgomery, has been a botanist for the majority of her career and she has spent 20 years as a professor.
There are also many events hosted in the US during the month to learn about significant moments in the history of African American culture. Some that are coming up soon according to the American Battlefield Trust are:
February 22 “Connections Through Art” Petersburg, VA
Learn how artists David and Elizabeth Bowser have used their art talents to create a panel showing the activism of the 1800s.
Ongoing virtual exhibit “Contested Franchise: The 15th Amendment and the Right to Vote in America”
Explore voting rights during the civil war and after the 15th amendment to know how it has greatly changed voting for the better, it is hosted by the American Civil War Museum.
Ongoing virtual exhibit “Finding Freedom”
Go through the lives of five people of African descent in war- torn Virginia in 1781 and learn about their stories. This section was created by the Museum of the American Revolution.
Black History Month serves as a learning opportunity as well as a time of celebration and reflection. Take some time to appreciate African American culture this month and learn about the many accomplishments and achievements of the past.
Edited By: Harrison Davies, Mathias Munoz Gonzalez
SOURCES USED
28 Ways to Celebrate Black History Month
Black History Month – NPS Commemorations and Celebrations (U.S. National Park Service)
Celebrating Black History – Harborview Injury Prevention & Research Center
Frederick Douglass – Frederick Douglass National Historic Site (U.S. National Park Service)
Frederick Douglass – Narrative, Quotes & Facts | HISTORY
ALPLM | Examining Lincoln’s Views on African Americans and Slavery
ASALH – The Founders of Black History Month | Black History Month
10 Engaging Ways to Honor and Celebrate Black History Month | American Battlefield Trust
Black History Month Reading List | River Bend Bookshop
15 Books You Should Read to Celebrate Black History Month | National Trust for Historic Preservation
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