The beginning of February marks the beginning of Black History Month. Originating in 1926, historian Carter G, Wilson founded “Negro History Week,” which started the idea of celebrating Black Hisotry throughout America. This celebration took place during the second week of February, as both Abraham Lincoln and Fredick Douglas’ birthdays are in that week. (NAACP)  Black educators and Black United students at Kent University built off of this idea in 1969, proposing the idea of deeming February Black History Month. Gerald Ford was the first president to officially recognize Black History Month and since then every president has formally recognized and celebrated it. (History.com)

Black History Month is an important time to recognize the accomplishments of African Americans throughout history that may have been overshadowed or underrepresented. Julian Lisboa (12) comments on the significance of this month, saying that it “stands as a reminder of the difficult road black Americans have traveled to claim success in a country against them.” Ranging from the 17th century to modern time, African Americans have made strides throughout the decades that warrant recognition. From Dr Martin Luther King Jr., a civil rights activist in the 1950s and Barack Obama, the first African American U.S. president, to Hattie McDaniel, the first African American to win an Oscar and John Taylor Jr,, the first to win an olympic gold medal, these achievements throughout history deserve to be celebrated. 

It is also important for younger generations of African Americnas to have representation in life to look up to. Seeing other African Americans doing influential things and learning about them in school or seeing them on T.V. inspires and encourages younger generations to follow their dreams and aspirations. Julian Lisboa shares what Black History Month means to him, saying  ”as a black student, I am humbled to be part of a changing country.” 

Many platforms take part in commemorating African Americans in modern times and throughout history. Many streaming services like Netflix and Hulu have a Black History section of shows, movies, and documentaries starring African Americans. Museums like the California African American Museum have special exhibitions and events specifically in celebration of Black History Month. 

Yorba Linda High School has also showcased its appreciation for Black History Month. On Wednesday, February 15th, ice cream from a local black owned business will be distributed at lunch for all students to enjoy. Also be sure to check out the Black History Month display in the library, featuring books from Black authors or books about historical black figures. 

During the month of February, it is important to look back at all the times in the past  where African Americans persevered and made history, as well as recognizing history that is currently being made by African Americans in present times.