Black History Month
By Rachel Akanle (Caring Hands)


The Black History Month originates from America, the idea of Carter G. Woodson born of African slaves. Woodson identified that the history of African American decedents was being misinterpreted or ignored by the educational system across America. This was largely to the negative assumptions that portrayed Black people as having no history apart from their experiences of slavery. In 1926, Woodson founded the Negro History Week to promote the study of African history, culture and heritage and acknowledge the massive contributions Black Americans were making to society. Woodson selected the birthdays of abolitionist Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln to celebrate Negro History Week as a tribute for their efforts in abolishing slavery. This event is celebrated to this day in America for the whole month of February. In 1976 Negro History Week changed to Black History Month.

In Britain, Black History Month was first celebrated In October 1987 as part of African Jubilee Year. The Association of London Authorities endorsed the decision to make it an annual event to recognise the contributions of African, Asian and Caribbean people to the British society and life. Black History Month creates a monument that educates young children on their identity, heritage and provides them with a solid foundation to appreciate other cultures and race. In addition to have an obligation to learn important lessons of the experiences of their fore bearer’s and how these have helped to shape the world in which they live. More importantly, Black history Month is used to encourage young people to set goals and never give up despite the stereotypes of society.

Black History Month is not about reflecting on Black, Asians and Caribbean people’s experiences often associated with racism. Instead it must be used to provide an opportunity to be inspired by those who have successfully accomplished the impossible that is impossible to reverse. This year, we had the opportunity to witness the election of the first African American President Barack Obama. Equally important, Black History Month is not intended to remember or study about a famous black, Asian or Caribbean person as this will be selling short the effort of an entire race or community’s contribution. African proverb sums it up as “It takes a whole village to raise a child” Black History Month is the celebration the love of humanity and hope even in the face of impossible odds.