Celebrating Black History Month

The United States is home to a multitude of cultures, nationalities, ethnicities and languages as diverse and plentiful as the people who inhabit it. To honor America’s diversity, we will recognize the history, culture and achievements of different communities all year. In February, we will celebrate Black History Month. Here are three facts about the history of Black History Month.

• In 1926, Black History Month began as a weeklong celebration initiated by Carter G. Woodson, an African American publisher, historian and educator. This week in February was chosen to encompass the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln.
• In 1976, the entire month of February was designated to celebrating the African American community. In a speech on observing and extending Black History Month, President Gerald Ford said, “We can seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”¹
• Each year since 1926, the celebrations have had a theme. In 1926, the theme was “Civilization: A World Achievement,” and in 2022, the theme is “Black Health and Wellness.”

Educators Credit Union is proud to join the celebration of honoring the African American community. For more information, visit www.africanamericanhistorymonth.gov/.

¹Abridged quote taken from www.fordlibrarymuseum.gov/library/speeches/760074.htm.