Black History Month

This week, we celebrate the beginning of Black History Month. Black History Month was founded by Carter G. Woodson in 1926, however it was not officially adopted as a federal holiday until 1976. 

Since becoming a federal holiday, The Association for the Study of African American Life and History assigns a new theme each year that is endorsed by the US Government. This year's theme is resistance. This theme recognizes the resistance of brutality, oppression, and injustice demonstrated by the Black community. 

This theme seems fitting, as the world witnessed another public display of police brutality on a Black man last month. Nature photographer and father to a 4-year old son, Tyre Nichols, was tased, punched, kicked, and beaten with a baton by three police officers in Memphis, TN. Shortly after the public release of the body camera footage, the officers were arrested. Mostly peaceful protests of police brutality have ensued across the country. This incident serves as a reminder that the Black community still faces unfair oppression, violence, and  prejudice. 

Black History Month is a time to spotlight Black achievement, celebrate triumphs, and honor the struggles of African Americans. Here are some ways to support Black communities this month:

• Support Black-owned businesses
  
• Fundraise for Black causes
  
• Purchase and read books by Black authors
  
• Educate yourself on Black figures and their contributions to society
  

Have more ideas on how to support Black communities during Black History Month? Leave a comment!


Sources: https://www.npr.org/2023/01/28/1151504967/tyre-nichols-memphis-police-body-cam-video
https://www.salesforce.org/blog/8-ways-to-honor-black-history-month/


​