Black History Month

In just a few days, the 44th Annual Black History Month will begin. However, long before President Gerald Ford officially recognized February as Black History Month in 1976, historian Carter G. Woodson and the Associated for the Study of Negro Life and History announced that the second week of February would be “Negro History Week.” Several years later in 1969, black educators at Kent State University celebrated the first Black History Month. Since then, Black History Month has evolved into a month to celebrate culture, to remember of those who have lost their lives as a result of racism, and to learn about those who have positively affected the world.

This year, Google released a video highlighting some of the most searched for figures and events. Beyoncé’s Coachella routine is the most searched for performance, Kendrick Lamar is the most searched for Pulitzer winner, The Autobiography of Malcolm X is the most searched for biography, and the Civil Rights movement is the most searched movement. Especially today with our city, state, nation, and world still plagued by racism, it is important to learn about those who are different from us in order to dispel damaging stereotypes. Watch the Google video here!

Throughout the month, Peace and Justice Club will be highlighting influential black people that have helped to change the world. Follow us on Instagram @vizpeacejustice to be updated!