Black History Month, also known as African American History Month, is an annual observance in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom for the remembrance of important people and events in the history of the African diaspora. It is celebrated every February and was first officially recognized by the United States government in 1976.
The origins of Black History Month can be traced back to 1915 when historian Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLH) first proposed the idea of a week-long celebration of African American history. This week was expanded to a month in 1976 by President Gerald Ford, who officially recognized February as Black History Month. The month was chosen to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, two prominent figures in American history who played essential roles in the abolition of slavery and the civil rights movement.
Black History Month is an essential time for reflection and education about the contributions and experiences of African Americans throughout history. From the enslavement of Africans and the transatlantic slave trade to the Civil War and abolition of slavery, to the Civil Rights Movement and ongoing struggles for racial equality, African American history is a vital and integral part of American history.
1. “The cost of liberty is less than the price of repression.” —W.E.B. Du Bois
2. “Power means happiness; power means hard work and sacrifice.” -Beyonce Knowles
3. “History has shown us that courage can be contagious, and hope can take on a life of its own.” –Michelle Obama
4. “Whatever we believe about ourselves and our ability comes true for us.”—Susan L. Taylor
5. “The very serious function of racism is a distraction. It keeps you from doing your work. It keeps you explaining, over and over again, your reason for being.” – Toni Morrison
6. “Never be limited by other people’s limited imaginations.” –Dr. Mae Jemison
7. “Freedom is never given; it is won.”—A. Philip Randolph
8. “I am lucky that whatever fear I have inside me, my desire to win is always stronger.” – Serena Williams
9. “Have a vision. Be demanding.” –Colin Powell
10. “For to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.” —Nelson Mandela
As we honor and celebrate the contributions and experiences of African Americans during Black History Month, it is important to also recognize and actively work to dismantle the systemic barriers and discrimination that still exist in our society. Pixlr is committed to using our platform and our company to do our part in creating a more just and equitable world for all.
Honor and Celebrate Black History Month with Pixlr, today!