new tech tools and digital communication. It is important that we continue to promote these adverts as our local businesses need as much support as possible during these challenging times. He also founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life (now the Association for the Study of African American Life and History). It was rallied for by Ghanaian analyst Akyaaba Addai-Sebo, who had served as a coordinator of special projects for the Greater London Council and created a collaboration to get it underway. Providing free access to millions of documents containing valuable information in its African American Genealogy hub, FamilySearch is at the forefront of promoting new horizons for the discovery of black family history. As a subscriber, you are shown 80% less display advertising when reading our articles. That's just a very small handful of some of the events taking place. If you have a complaint about the editorial content which relates to inaccuracy or intrusion, then please contact the editor here. Family historians dive into archives, online newspapers, and Get involved with the news in your community, This website and associated newspapers adhere to the Independent Press Standards Organisation's Editors' Code of Practice. Out on the streets, Royal Mail said that four post boxes - in London, Glasgow, Cardiff and Belfast - have been painted black with a gold trim as part of Black History Month in October. Activists for racial equality in the United States, the Caribbean, and Africa helped spread a new racial pride called “black consciousness” around the world. Black History Month is a great opportunity for people from all backgrounds to educate themselves on black history and the often-overlooked people who have made a difference to the country. In 1969, Black History Month was proposed by black educators at Kent State University in 1969, and six years later it was celebrated across all educational institutions. It originated in the United States, and is now celebrated in a number of countries. Time itself is not necessarily a healer, but it does Black History Month can provide healing opportunities These stories inspire new generations and destroy old stereotypes. Black History Month came onto the American scene in the meek clothing of “Negro History Week,” which was held during the second week of February (7–14) in 1926. Interestingly, the history of Black History Month itself provides a window into why it is so important to know, remember, and celebrate black history. Find out more about what Black History Month is and why it is celebrated in the UK. On social media, black women, including recent Booker Prize winner Bernardine Evaristo, are taking over the Instagram accounts of prominent white women (including Gwyneth Paltrow and Victoria Beckham) on October 1. We highlight black history to continue to understand how black narratives are tightly woven and integrated into the narrative of the United States as a whole. So very proud of you and your commitment to our community! The same is true worldwide. 33 years later, every October marks Black History Month in the UK, and a number of special events and celebrations take place to mark the occasion. Flo Rida Notify me of follow-up comments by email. They were taught to despise their own physical characteristics and forget their African culture. Now, we dedicate an entire month to recognize the meaningful impact that individuals of African descent have made to enrich American culture, expand democracy, strengthen families, and make a better society for all. The event, which has been observed since 1987, aims to celebrate the important people and events in the history of people of African and Caribbean descent. She is professor emerita of Howard University and an ordained elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. HP10 9TY | 01676637 | Registered in England & Wales. Black History Month: What is it - and why do we celebrate it every October?. October marks Black History Month in the UK - here's what you need to know about it, from when it is, to why it's celebrated. A Gannett Company. For more information on how you and your family can make the most of this month, head to FamilySearch’s African American Genealogy hub. Sebo proposed October as their month of celebration because that is when traditional African leaders meet to settle differences. Interested in learning more about historic days in February? In the words of the first black-owned newspaper, Freedom’s Journal (1827–1829), African Americans must “plead our own cause.”. Download this handy calendar! Pandora Christie Negro History Week was originally about reaching black children in public schools. Woodson felt that this remembering was important and that such an education would motivate others to rise to their highest potential. Black History Month highlights the lasting contributions of black men and women in society. © 2020 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. It was designed by Dr. Carter G. Woodson (1875–1950), a native of Virginia and the son of formerly enslaved parents. Required fields are marked *. internet-based genealogy websites has revolutionized Woodson’s work in ways he Soon, mayors across the United States were endorsing the week as a holiday, and it prompted the creation of Black history clubs and an increase in interest. Due to current Coronavirus restrictions, limits are in place on what sort of events can be held, with mass gatherings banned. Subsequent presidents, Republican and Democrat alike, have all issued Black History Month proclamations. Black History Month came onto the American scene in the meek clothing of “Negro History Week,” which was held during the second week of February (7–14) in 1926. Black history is important because black history is American history. Catherine Ross - Founder Director, Museumand - The National Caribbean Heritage Museum guest editor of Black History Month 2020 wrote about the importance of Black History Month 2020 on the official website. It may seem as if there are multiple Black History Months, due to the fact that other areas of the globe - including the US, where events receive international coverage - observe the month in February. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. life stories of their ancestors—ordinary people who did extraordinary things. Find out more about what Black History Month is and why it is celebrated in the UK. Both had long been honored in the African American community as pivotal to black freedom.