Celebrating Black History Month

Black History Month, also known as African American History Month, is when we remember the efforts of thousands of black people, their history, and their will to fight against discrimination. African-Americans have played a major role in making our country what it is today. The equal rights we enjoy and the freedom to be the people we are, we owe to the incredible personalities in history like Rosa Parks, Bayard Rustin, and Edna Griffin, who stood their ground and changed the narrative of our society.

Hence, since 1976, every February we have celebrated Black History Month all month long!

How it All Began
The foundation of studying black history was laid in 1915, when slavery was finally abolished. It was Carter G. Woodson, a Harvard-trained historian, and Jesse E. Moorland who established an association that today is called the Association for the Study of African-American Life and History. The purpose of this organization was to bring to light the achievements of black people and those of African descent.

In 1926, the group initiated a national black history week which inspired many communities, schools, and towns to celebrate the history, create clubs and even conduct lectures about great personalities and events from the past.

Soon this week dedicated to remembering black history became an annual ritual. In the 190s, primarily because of the Civil Rights Movement, this week grew to become “Black History Month.”

Black History Month – 2023 Theme
Every year the president dedicates a theme to honor black history and lives. This year the theme is “Black Resistance.”

By studying black history, you will observe that by practicing resistance consistently, black communities across the country have successfully broken a system purposely built to restrict them and prevent them from spreading their wings.

The theme is a nod to acknowledging that black people in our communities still have much to fight for and continue to resist an oppressed system that discriminates against them.

Multiple cases of recent police brutality are proof of the fact that although the country has come a long way and things have changed, this battle is still not won. Black people still lack safe spaces where they are not judged or discriminated against.

The Role We Play
There are many lessons of resistance in black history that can truly help you understand political systems and how it takes one great leader to change the lives of millions. Urban youth have much potential and could follow in the footsteps of inspirational leaders like Frederick Douglass and Martin Luther King, Jr. All they require are the right resources and guidance to help them achieve greatness.

Youth with a Future is dedicated to providing urban youth with tools and opportunities to change their lives and give back to their communities. Get in touch if you would like to join us in our cause to shape future leaders today!