This February marks 100 years of celebrating Black History in America!
Black History Month originated in 1926 as “Negro History Week,” and was the brainchild of historian Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of African American Life and History to promote Black History in schools. Woodson, a Harvard-trained historian, chose February to coincide with the birthdates of Abraham Lincoln (12 Feb) and Frederick Douglass (14 Feb) – two figures who have been given significant credit for the emancipation of enslaved people. The week was expanded into a month in 1976 by President Gerald Ford, aiming to honor the achievements, struggles, and contributions of African Americans.
There are more than 48 million African Americans in the US who have a history that stretches far beyond 1619. It is one that has ancestral roots on the continent of Africa and, because of trade, displacement, and resilience, has evolved into a rich identity that is now commonly called the African American experience.
February is an opportunity to publicly acknowledge and celebrate the culture that has been cultivated through endurance, strength, and dignity. By will, might, faith, and passion. It is a chance to honor the spirit of Sankofa, an Akan term that means “reach back and get it”. For African Americans, there is no history of the United States from 1607 to the present that excludes us. Black history is American history.
Much like the brilliant leadership of Maggie Lena Walker, we carry the torch of excellence into the present. This year at Maggie Walker, our theme is “Women’s Voices: Truth and Triumph”.
Dr. Lisa Williams, Ms. NaKita Lee, Ms. Joy Cobb, Dr. Alex Purifoy, and Robinette Cross have organized several amazing opportunities for our MLWGS community to join us and celebrate the undaunted women of the African Diaspora in America. And as we continue to dive deep into the pillars of the Walker Way, we have courageously collaborated to compassionately uplift our community.
There are a host of events happening both within the walls of Maggie Walker and the larger community. We will celebrate with the students on the following days and times:
Yours in service,
Robinette D. Cross
