Black History Month 2007

FEBRUARY 1, 2007.-

Originally established as Negro History Week in 1926 by Dr. Carter G. Woodson, a distinguished African-American author and scholar, this event evolved into the establishment of February as "Black History Month" in 1976. This commemoration has also been referred to as "African-American History Month." Both names are currently in use.

When Carter G. Woodson established Negro History week, he realized the importance of providing a theme to focus the attention of the public. The commemoration celebrates the achivements of African- Americans in the life of the United States. The selection of the month of February was inspired on the birthdates of president Abraham Lincoln and abolitionist leader Frederick Douglas, the two most important figures that fought for the rights of the African- American population in the U.S., during the 19th century. It was in 1976, during the presidency of Gerald Ford, that celebration became a National holiday.

In 2007, the Association for the Study of African Americans Life and history (ASALH), founded in 1915 by Dr. Woodson, dedicates its national theme "to the struggles of peoples of African descent to achieve freedom and equality in the Americas during the age of emancipation".

Links of Interest:

President George W. Bush's Proclamation, The White House.

American Celebrate Black History Month, USINFO, Department of State.

Carter G. Woodson, Father of Black History Month, USINFO, Department of State.

African American History, The White House.

Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH)