Black History Month is a globally recognized time meant to appreciate the important figures and contributions within African American history. Originally, this celebration only lasted a week—the second week of February. This week was chosen because it coincided with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln, February 12th, and Fredrick Douglas, February 14th, and both dates were celebrated by African American communities since the late 19th century. The first celebration of Black History Month (BHM) took place in Kent State, Ohio, from January 2nd to February 28th, 1970. Six years later, BHM grew to being celebrated across the country in educational institutions, centers of African American culture, and community centers.
When someone hears the words “Black History Month,” many names may pop into their mind: Martin Luther King Jr., Stevie Wonder, Harriet Tubman, Michael Jackson, Rosa Parks, Barack Obama, etc. The list could go on forever. The number of people who have significantly altered the course of Black History is inspiring. These figures have shown that when you honestly believe in something and work for it, you can attain it.
When asked who she thinks of when she hears the words “Black History Month,” Emma Leopard, senior at North Augusta High School, responded with: “The first name that comes to mind is George Floyd. He will go down in history as the catalyst for the revolution against police brutality. Although the Black Lives Matter movement has been ongoing for years, his death along with many others in 2020 have opened the eyes of the American people to what is happening in our country. His name in the future will be associated with change just like the incredible civil rights activist that came before him.”
During this upcoming month, let us remember those who knew what they wanted and fought for it. Let us be inspired. Let us not let this month go by without celebrating the lives of leaders and revolutionaries during Black History Month.
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