A Short Overlooked Black History Month Fact

That is my favorite quote to kick off the beginning of February, Black History Month(BHM). It says so much to what we Americans are learning & still need to learn about Black culture & history. I grew up to beam with pride during this month. There are several posts on here where I credit BHM for helping me come to terms with my nerd self. There is also a post HERE about my upset with black folks who don't know & mumble the words to "Lift E'ery Voice and Sing", the Black National Anthem. Well, it has a twin in a complaint that makes me want to shake my people. "Black History Month is celebrated in February, the shortest month in the year". *insert a deep sigh* Guess what? There is a simple reason for that. And it has everything to do with a man, but not The Man.

Carter Godwin Woodson was an American historian, author, journalist who was one of the first scholars to study African-American history. Woodson is also considered the "father of black history". In February 1926, he launched the celebration of "Negro History Week", the precursor of Black History Month. Black History Month was founded on February 1, 1970, by Black United Students and Black educators at Kent State University.

Woodson pioneered the celebration of "Negro History Week" designated for the second week in February, to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln(February 12, 1809) and Frederick Douglass(February 14, 1818). Lincoln freed the slaves when he was President. Douglass was a black national leader of the abolitionist movement. And since the late 19th century, black communities had celebrated the birthdates together.

And that is the short, simple reason why Black History Month is celebrated in February. Also, a reason why "Lions need Historians". That simple fact keeps getting lost in the shuffle. We must remember & teach others that fact while we study & celebrate Black history every single day of our lives.

As Always Talking to You in Adult Terms