February is Nationally recognized as Black History Month, a celebration of the contributions and achievements of the African American community. The story of Black History Month actually began over 100 years ago in 1915, when a Harvard trained historian, Carter Woodson, and a prominent minister, Jesse Moorland, founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (also known as ASNLH). The ASNLH is dedicated to researching and promoting the accomplishments of black Americans and anyone of African heritage.
In 1926, the group sponsored national Negro History week. They chose the second week in February to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass (born a slave he escaped at age 20 and became an anti-slavery activist). The creation of Negro History week inspired communities nationwide to organize local celebrations, establish history clubs, and host performances or lectures.
Major cities across the country began recognizing Negro History week annually and by the mid-1960s, amidst the civil rights movement, many college campuses evolved the week into a month-long celebration known as Black History Month. President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month in 1976 and it has been celebrated every February since.
Here in the Coachella Valley, the Palm Springs Black History Committee works year-round to bring events to residents and visitors. This year’s events include:
• “The Artists and Their Work” on February 15th at the Palm Springs Art Museum.
• An adult basketball tournament on February 17th.
• Black History Month parade and Town Fair on February 24th.
For more information on all events please visit The Palm Springs Black History Committee.
Written by Nicole Bowen of The Darling Niki
Photo in header of post from Mecknc.gov