Black History Month, which takes place in February, is a month of joyand celebration for Black Americans. It is also a time of remembrance for the struggles endured and progress made by the Black community.
Black History Month was originally celebrated as “Negro History Week,” by Carter G. Woodsen, a historian who founded the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) as a recognition of Black American achievement and a celebration of the fiftieth anniversary of emancipation in 1915. The celebration became Black History Month in 1976 through a declaration of President Gerald Ford.
Younger generations are preserving Black history in many ways, especially through digital platforms. Black content creators share stories, artwork and research in an immediate and accessible way, redefining old narratives about the Black experience. Young activists, artists and scholars also challenge stereotypes and explore Black history. Additionally, grassroots movements are using social media as a medium to involve young people in issues such as advocating for the inclusion of accurate Black history in school curriculums, and connecting Black history to present day struggles for justice.
In recent years some corporations have commercialized the celebration. In 2020, Barnes & Noble launched a “Diverse Editions” campaign during Black History Month, which involved reimagining classic book covers like the “Frankenstein” and “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” with protagonists of different ethnicities. This campaign was eventually pulled after it received criticism for its performative nature, as it failed to promote literature by authors of color or stories that authentically represent diverse experiences. Brands should move away from surface-level efforts and instead take tangible actions that demonstrate long term commitment to the Black community.
actions that demonstrate long term commitment to the Black community.
Google is an example of a company making more meaningful efforts to honor the month. Some of Google’s past efforts include providing a $3 million grant to the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) to support their Afro-Academic, cultural, technological, and scientific Olympics program in 2021. Google has also committed to a goal of improving Black leadership representation within their company by 30% by this year.
Local communities can also contribute to a more authentic and impactful celebration of Black history by hosting events and gatherings that honor Black History Month, the Foghorn has put together a list of a few Black History Month activites on page 7. Dining at Black owned restaurants is another way to celebrate, there are several near the Hilltop, including Taqueria Los Mayas in the Inner Richmond and Cafe International on Haight Street.
Whether from corporations or individuals, recognizing Black History Month should be an ongoing commitment to advancing racial equity. Celebrations should ultimately leave a meaningful impact that lasts long after the month is over.
Editor-in-Chief: Jordan Premmer, Chief Copy Editor: Sophia McCrackin, Managing Editor: Jordan DelFiugo, Opinion Editor: Dakota Duran, Scene Editor: Elina Graham
