Previewing Black History Month

By: Laila Schwin, Brittney Corrado, and Alisha Bains

January 26, 2021

Next week starts the beginning of Black History Month in the United States. While this month-long recognition of black history is often underappreciated, it plays an important role in our nation’s development and diversity.

Every February provides a chance to take the time to focus on important African Americans throughout the history of the United States and their major contributions to not only political and civil rights-based movements but to their achievements in other fields as well. Simply, we must continue to uplift black voices still fighting for social justice and equality here and around the world. 

Next month should also encourage people to learn and respect the modern and historical achievements of African Americans, year round. The issues that many marginalized groups face are not solved nor represented by a single month devoted to them; they should be recognized as a cohesive part of history for their overall importance. 

Black History Month is important because we recognize and celebrate African American achievements and contributions. It is also important because Americans can become more aware of black struggles and their fight for freedom and equality. Next month provides opportunities to learn and share more about black achievements. 

The month of February was chosen as Black History Month based upon the original dates for a formal, black history week. In 1926, the second week of February was designated for black history, as it included the birthdays of President Abraham Lincoln (leading voice for equality and peace) and Frederick Douglass. Carter G. Woodson was the one who designated and created the concept of that black appreciation week. It later evolved to a whole month in the 1960s, primarily because it was the height of the civil rights movement at that time.

Some influential African American activists who can and should be highlighted next month, primarily for their influences on civil rights, are as follows:

• Malcolm X 
• Martin Luther King, Jr.
• Alveda King
• Bayard Rustin
• Rosa Parks
• Maya Angelou
• Frederick Douglass

This is, in no way, a full list, and a single article could never encompass the amount of important activists, but these are some of the more recognized and highlighted individuals who have fought for or are currently fighting for equality.

Black History Month is both important and historical for African Americans. We are all equal, and the color of our skin does not define our character. 

Take time this February to recognize the people who fought for, and those who are still fighting for, the equality that they so much deserve. Especially now, recognize the good in people because it is long overdue.

For more information, check out the Black History section from Biography.com.