DEI & Leadership Blog
If Black History Month IS American History, Why Do We Celebrate It?
Each February, we recognize Black History Month—a time dedicated to honoring the achievements, resilience, and contributions of Black Americans throughout history. Yet, the question is often raised: If Black history is an essential part of American history, why set aside a month to celebrate it separately?
The answer is both simple and profound: We celebrate Black History Month because history has not always told the full story. And in a time when inclusivity, equity, and truth are more important than ever, dedicating this month to learning, reflecting, and uplifting Black voices remains vital.
A History of Erasure and Omission
For centuries, Black Americans have played an integral role in shaping the United States—through innovation, activism, culture, and resilience in the face of injustice. Yet, mainstream narratives have often excluded or minimized these contributions. The stories of Black scientists, artists, entrepreneurs, educators, and civil rights leaders were rarely included in textbooks.
Dr. Carter G. Woodson, the historian known as the “Father of Black History,” founded Negro History Week in 1926 with the goal of ensuring that Black Americans’ stories were told. He recognized that without intentional effort, these histories would continue to be overlooked. What began as a week expanded into a month in 1976, and today, Black History Month serves as both a celebration and a corrective lens through which we examine our shared history more fully.
Why It Matters More Than Ever
While we’ve made progress in integrating Black history into broader educational curricula, gaps remain. Black History Month is an opportunity to:
- Amplify Black Voices: By centering Black stories, we help ensure that diverse perspectives shape our understanding of the past and present.
- Acknowledge Systemic Inequities: History is not just about celebrating triumphs—it’s also about recognizing struggles. Understanding the impact of slavery, segregation, and racial injustice helps us address their lingering effects today.
- Inspire Future Generations: Representation matters. When young people—especially Black youth—see leaders who look like them in history books, they are empowered to envision limitless possibilities for their own futures.
Black History Is American History—Every Month
Ultimately, Black History Month is not about confining Black history to a single month. It is about making space for deeper conversations, elevating voices that have been marginalized, and reaffirming that Black history is American history.
By embracing this month with intention, we reinforce the idea that these stories deserve to be told year-round. So, we celebrate not because Black history is separate, but because it is integral—past, present, and future.