As the month comes to a close, so does this year’s Black History Month. This February, a number of events were hosted by organizations on campus such as the Myatt Center and Black Student Union in honor of Black History Month, with some events yet to come.
Black History Month first started as a week-long celebration in 1926 through what is now known as the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) by historian and author Dr. Carter G. Woodson. Woodson chose the week in February which included the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass for their significance in the history of Black Americans.
In 1975, Pres. Ford issued a statement recognizing the week, saying, “it is most appropriate that Americans set aside a week to recognize the important contribution made to our nation’s life and culture by our black citizens.” In the message, he mentioned the importance of emphasizing the achievements of the African American community, and urged Americans to be mindful of the purpose behind the week. “In this spirit, I urge my fellow citizens to be mindful of the valuable message conveyed to us during the celebration of this week,” he said.
The following year, ASALH expanded this week-long celebration, into the month-long celebration known today. In the same year, Ford issued another message honoring the celebration, with presidents continuing to issue messages of this type in subsequent years.
Black History Month became a nationally recognized celebration after Congress passed Public Law 99-244 on Feb. 11, 1986. The document reads, “Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled. That the month of February, 1986, is designated as ‘National Black (Afro-American) History Month’, and the President of the United States is authorized and requested to issue a proclamation calling upon the people of the United States to observe that month with appropriate ceremonies and activities to salute all that Black Americans have done to help build our country.”
The university’s Black Student Union has hosted five of its events already, with Dance Night taking place Feb. 26th, in the Alumni Lounge, and the BHM 90s Throwback Party taking place on Feb. 28, closing off the month.
The university’s Black student union was established two years before Ford’s message regarding the week-long celebration of black history. It began in 1973, and was the first student organization in the university for people of color. The student organization is known for its work during February, with their overview on Charger Connections reading “The Black Student Union is one of the most significant recognized student organizations to influence cultural awareness through its programming, collaboration with other cultural RSOs, and most importantly through its events during Black History Month.”
With the month coming to a close, it is important to continue to acknowledge how far the African American community has come but also to remember that they face many problems today. With many feeling uncertain due to changes happening nationwide in relation to diversity and equity programs, the Myatt Center for Diversity & Inclusion would like to remind students of their dedication to students’ safety and well-being and encourage students to be resilient.
Assistant Director Kenneth Notarino-Jeffrey said “We encourage you all to stand in the face of adversity, stay informed on current events through unbiased and verified sources, and educate yourself on your rights. While it is normal to be afraid when times are changing, we will provide a strong and solid base for our students to walk firmly upon.”
If you have any questions or concerns, you can reach the Black Student Union at bsu@newhaven.edu, and The Myatt Center for Diversity & Inclusion at CDI@newhaven.edu.
