Black History Month, or National African American History Month, is an annual celebration of achievements by Black Americans and a time for recognizing the central role of African Americans in U.S. history. The event grew out of “Negro History Week,” the brainchild of noted historian Carter G. Woodson and other prominent African Americans. Since 1976, every U.S. president has officially designated the month of February as Black History Month. Other countries around the world, including Canada and the United Kingdom, also devote a month to celebrating Black history.
This week, as the country begins observing Black History Month, we have an opportunity to come together and celebrate the profound role that African Americans have played in every facet of our nation. We also reflect upon the systems of oppression and acts of hate that have served as barriers to our progress within our society. There are many opportunities to learn more about and honor the rich heritage and tremendous contributions of Black, African, and African American people, to our organization and our community. I encourage us all to take time to learn more about and acknowledge the challenges and celebrate the contributions, aspirations, and accomplishments of the Black community — both here at Community Health Care and beyond.
The Great Dr. Carter G. Woodson once said “If a race has no history, if it has no worthwhile tradition, it becomes a negligible factor in the thought of the world, and it stands in danger of being exterminated” So allow this opportunity to acknowledge Black History Month is not a singular event; Black History is part of our nation’s legacy. Every week during Black History Month, we will be acknowledging many items.
Weekly Acknowledgement:
Wednesday February 1: HBCU-Historically Black Colleges and Universities
Monday February 6: The Divine 9: Black Fraternities and Sororities
Monday February 13: The Crown ACT
Monday February 20: Still Much Work to Be Done: Black Healthcare Disparities
Monday February 27: Intersectionality and Black Women
Resources:
A Proclamation on National Black History Month, 2023
