By: Nora Warner
Photo: Google
February brings many holidays and events, including Black History Month. Black History Month was first federally recognized in 1976 under President Gerald Ford and was signed into law by the US Congress in 1986. The celebration was born from early movements to recognize the contributions of African Americans to U.S. history. President Ford encouraged Americans to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”
2026 marks the 50th National Black History Month. Today, the month serves as a time of increased opportunity for Americans to learn about, celebrate, and appreciate the contributions of African Americans throughout history. Museums and other educational institutions, especially at the state and federal levels, often provide additional programming to highlight the culture and contributions of Black Americans. We can celebrate Black History Month by taking advantage of opportunities to learn.
Black History Month serves not only as a time to recognize Black Americans, but also as a reminder of the importance of diversity in the past, present, and future of our country.
