Black History Month Appreciation

By: Mehzabin Rahman

Black History Month occurs every year, starting February 1st and ending March 1st. It is a month that is celebrated to honor all African American women and men. Its roots trace all the way back to 1915. This was about half a century after the thirteenth amendment was placed, abolishing slavery. Black History Month, initially started as a week, but grew into the whole month of February. 

From important black abolitionists and activists, like Harriet Tubman, who led the enslaved through the underground railroad to safety, to Sojourner Truth, who fought for civil rights, as well as women's rights, both have a substantial impact on the African American community, and inspire generations to come. There are hundreds of African Americans that have left a huge impact on American history, to name a few, we have Martin Luther King Jr, Malcolm X, Rosa Parks, Bessie Coleman, Claudette Colvin, and countless others. All of these figures haven’t just had an impact on just African Americans, but the whole world. Their stories will be told for years, inspiring someone with each time their story is shared. They remind us that progress comes only with resilience and determination, and a strong belief in justice.

Black history month isn’t just a look into history, but a major call to action. It sheds light on all the voices that have been silenced, overlooked, and disregarded. It lets us explore beyond just the stories of slavery and racism, but dives into the arts, music, achievements, and culture. Looking into my personal favorite topic in Black History month, the arts, celebrating the creativity, talent, and culture that help us look back on all the contributions that African Americans have made to modern day topics. As we all hustle to celebrate Black History Month, remember that black history isn’t just cramped into one singular month, but is spread out all around us. Woven into this nation, Black History Month will always be severely impactful no matter what year we’re in.

Take this as a sign to acknowledge all the black figures in your life, and celebrate their culture, lives, and victories.