Black History Month

1. Origins
2. Importance
3. First one
4. Themes
5. Icons
6. Icons
7. Celebrations

1st Slide:
In 1915, Carter G. Woodson started ASNLH to celebrate Black achievements. In 1926,
they began Negro History Week in February, matching Lincoln and Douglass's birthdays.
In 1976, President Gerald Ford made it Black History Month to honor overlooked Black
accomplishments. Every February, we celebrate to recognize and appreciate Black
Americans' contributions across the country.

2nd Slide:
Black History Month is not just about celebrating. It's also a time to talk about mental
health issues in marginalized groups because of things like racism. We remember
important Black people in U.S. history, like Martin Luther King Jr., Thurgood Marshall,
Mae Jemison, and Barack Obama. They show us how important it is to include everyone
for a better future.

3rd Slide:
It's important to clarify that while the concept of Black History Month as we know it
today began in 1926 with "Negro History Week", the first official, month-long
celebration actually took place in 1970. Here's how each unfolded:
1926 "Negro History Week":

 Initiated by Carter G. Woodson.

 Dates: Second week of February, chosen for Lincoln and Douglass' birthdays.

 Events: Local celebrations involved school activities like lectures, debates, and
exhibits, community parades, and national media coverage.

 Impact: Elevated interest in Black history, inspired communities to explore their

heritage, laid the groundwork for future recognition.

1970 Black History Month:

 Initiated at Kent State University.

 Dates: Feb 1st to March 1st ,1970

 Events: Campus lectures, workshops, exhibits, film screenings, music, and

community forums addressing race relations and social justice.

 Impact: Garnered national attention, catalyzed widespread adoption of Black

History Month, influencing future themes and approaches.

4th Slide:
Since 1976, every year in February, U.S. presidents say it's Black History Month. This
year's theme is "African Americans and the Arts," celebrating Black people in art like
pictures, music, and stories. They talk about how art keeps history, makes people
strong, changes culture, and helps everyone understand each other better. Lots of
events in February show how important Black art is.
5th Slide:
Alice Coachman, born in 1923, broke barriers. She trained without shoes and became
the first Black woman to win an Olympic gold medal in 1948, jumping 5' 6". She was
excellent in high jump, dashes, and relays at national championships. Coachman also got
the first endorsement deal for a Black woman, making history. Her story inspires
athletes, showing that even when things are tough, you can still achieve great things.

6th Slide:

 1929: Born Michael King Jr. in Atlanta, bathed in the segregated South.
 1955: At 26, ignited a nation with the Montgomery Bus Boycott, leading
boycotters against injustice with quiet but unwavering resolve.
 1957: Co-founded SCLC, wielding nonviolence as a potent weapon for change,
inspiring millions.
 1963: From a Birmingham jail cell, penned the poignant "Letter," exposing the
moral bankruptcy of segregation.
 1963: Marched on Washington, delivering his immortal "I Have a Dream" speech,
etching a vision of equality in hearts and minds.
 1964: Honored with the Nobel Peace Prize, a powerful recognition of his
nonviolent struggle.
 1965: Led the Selma to Montgomery marches, facing brutality but securing the
Voting Rights Act, a landmark victory.
 1968: A silenced voice: assassinated in Memphis at 39, leaving an unfinished
symphony of justice.
 1986: Honored with a national holiday, his legacy celebrated, his unfinished work
a call to action for generations.

7th Slide:
Theme: African Americans and the Arts! Dive into museums, galleries, and theaters
showcasing visual art, dance, music, literature, and film by Black creators.

Community Events: Attend film screenings, talks by historians and artists, and vibrant
parades showcasing Black culture and creativity.

Educational Opportunities: Visit historical sites like the National Center for Civil and
Human Rights, or join online discussions exploring Black contributions to various fields.

Support Black Businesses: Discover restaurants, bookstores, and shops owned by Black
entrepreneurs, celebrating their economic impact and artistic expression.

Remember the Past, Shape the Future: Reflect on the struggles and triumphs of Black
Americans, honoring their legacy and using it to inspire action for a more equitable
future.