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Black History Month brings back good memories for me. All through my years of elementary, middle, and high school, this was a time where the focus was on us. We learned about scientists and inventors who made world-changing contributions to society. Students were exposed to art and literature that expanded our worldview. Learning about the courage of Harriet Tubman and other leaders of the Underground Railroad was always inspiring. We sang songs and learned dances rooted in African culture, teaching me that I did have a heritage. It was always a joyful time, especially following Martin Luther King Day celebrations. Against the tropes of how Black people are often portrayed in the media, it gave me something higher to aspire to. I learned that people who look like me are smart, resilient and capable.

According to History.com writers, Black History Month has its origins in the work of “Harvard-trained historian Carter G. Woodson and the prominent minister Jesse E. Moorland” in 1915. The initial celebration took place during the second week of February, aligning with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Fredrick Douglass. Several of the luxuries we have today are the result of Black inventors such as refrigerated trucks and automatic elevator doors. And of course, the Hidden Figures story, black women mathematicians known as the “computers” of NASA who helped the U.S.A. win the space race, is quite powerful.

There are some that say we shouldn’t only celebrate Black History one month out of the year. I totally agree! Black History, as an integral part of American and World History, should be celebrated year-round. However, since this group was treated as sub-human for many years and has experienced losses in preserving its history, designating a period of time to specifically focus on the legacy and achievements of African Americans is good and right. Bringing dignity and recognizing humanity in places where hate once prevailed honors God.

Challenge yourself this month to learn about at least one contribution that African Americans have made to society that you were not previously aware of.