photo credit: Mackenna Miller
Since 1976, the celebration of black history has been extended to the whole month of February. During this month, Americans focus attention on the contributions and triumphs of African Americans in the United States.
According to naccp.org, Dr. Carter G. Woodson, a Black author, editor, publisher, and historian, is recognized for his role in establishing Black History Month. In 1976, President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month encouraging Americans to honor the accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of our history.
As the years passed, Black History Month became more than just a time for reflection; it became a chance to educate. Schools, communities, and cultural organizations worldwide began to host programs, events, and exhibits to show community members the achievements of African Americans in areas such as politics, the arts, the sciences, and civil rights.
“Black History Month is important to me because it’s the one month where Black accomplishments are widely recognized nationwide. It’s also important that history’s flaws are recognized so that there is an understanding that the atrocities of the past must not be repeated,” Black Empowerment Club president Zion Clifton said.
Starting in 2011, the Black Empowerment Club organized and led an assembly for the whole student body and staff at the high school. This assembly, which took place on Feb.7, allows club members to showcase their talents while also helping to educate the school’s members on important African American figures.
“Starting in January, Black Empowerment Club meets every day after school to write scripts and scenes for our annual show. After a while, we move our meetings to the stage to start putting the show together and we continue to do so until the show, which is always the first week of February,” Clifton said
The time and effort the Black Empowerment Club puts into its assembly each year is a great example of how students can create meaningful change within their communities. By creating events that have both education and creativity, they are not only celebrating black history but also helping to show the importance of representation, leadership, and collaboration within communities.
“The main goal of the Black Empowerment Assembly is to educate our peers about parts of African American history that aren’t as well known. Over the years we have worked to make them interactive and entertaining as well because we want the show to be a yearly highlight for everyone in the school,” Clifton said.
While the assembly that the high school’s Black Empowerment Club puts on is loved and seen by many, they also organize other events for the black community in the school. Some of these events include: discussions, movie nights, and group bonding activities. “It’s ultimately a little community for black students to feel welcome,” Clifton said.
Beyond the month of February, the lessons of Black History Month should continue to resonate throughout the year. They should be used to encourage everyone to take a role in understanding and acknowledging systemic challenges while giving hope for a more equal society. This month is not only about the past, it’s about building a future where every story, voice and accomplishment is recognized, heard and valued.
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