February 1-28 

  BHM, or Black History month honors the achievements, history, and cultural impact of Black communities.  Black History Month is celebrated in several countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Ireland. School programs, museum exhibits, public events, and community celebrations are held to honor these Black communities. Although the traditions vary, the shared goal is to recognize Black history as an essential part of national and global history.

Here are a few fun facts:

• It began as “Negro History Week” in 1926, created by historian, Carter G. Woodson.

• February was chosen because it includes the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln, two key figures in Black history.

• The celebration has a new national theme every year, chosen by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH).

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February 11 

International Day of Women and Girls in Science has been celebrated every year for 10 years. It was created to bring attention to the gender gap and stereotypes of sex equality in Science. Women everywhere continue to face systematic discrimination in Science Careers and education opportunities. To get rid of this gender gap, stereotypes must be broken, female role models must be represented, opportunities of inclusive environments need to be available, and policies supporting diversity and equity have to be enacted. 

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February 14

Valentine’s Day comes from ancient Roman fertility festivals, an example being "Lupercalia". Another origin is Christian feast days honoring a martyr named Saint Valentine. The holiday is celebrated by millions around the globe through different types of celebrations. In the United States, it’s known for cards, chocolates, and flowers, while Japan has a tradition where women give chocolates and men return gifts a month later on “White Day.” Mexico celebrates the Day of Love and Friendship, focusing on both romantic and platonic relationships, and the Philippines is famous for hosting large public weddings on this day. Despite the cultural differences, the holiday centers on expressing love, appreciation, and connection.

Here are some facts about Valentine's Day:

• In Italy, Valentine’s Day was once celebrated with a spring festival where young couples would gather outdoors to enjoy music and poetry.

• In Finland and Estonia, February 14 is more about friendship than romance — it’s literally called “Friend’s Day,” and people exchange cards with pals instead of partners.

• In South Africa, some people still follow an old Roman tradition where women pin the name of their crush on their sleeve — which is where the phrase “wearing your heart on your sleeve” comes from.

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