The Untold Origin Story of Black History Month
Uncover the true history behind Black History Month - a story of grassroots activism, not a 'gift' from the powers that be.
Black History Month is often dismissed as a concession given to Black people, but the reality is far more empowering. Contrary to the common gripe that "they gave us the shortest month of the year," Black History Month was never a gift bestowed upon the Black community. It's a hard-won victory stemming from decades of grassroots activism and a refusal to let the contributions of Black Americans be erased from the historical record.
As Jarvis Givens, the author of I'll Make Me a World: The 100-Year Journey of Black History Month, explains, "If you know anything about the basic origins of Black History Month, then you know that we weren't 'given' anything." The journey to establish this annual celebration has been a long and arduous one, rooted in the tireless efforts of pioneers like Carter G. Woodson, who founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History in 1915.
Source: The Guardian
