Importance 

As February goes on it is important to celebrate Black History month and immerse ourselves in learning about black individuals who have changed society.  

This year marks the 48th year that Black History month will be celebrated  here in the United States. 

By celebrating Black History Month we are called to educate ourselves on African American achievements.

Plant Manager at Vericast, an online business connection company, Karriel Augustin said, “The importance of Black History Month is to honor and celebrate the lives and achievements of African Americans who have made transformational impacts on American Society.”  

Black History Month should be celebrated and honored  by everyone because it is American History.    

Washington D.C.

In Washington, DC, the U.S. capital, The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture celebrates Black History Month with programs that empower art, which  by the museum is used as a platform for social justice.

The director of the museum, Kevin Young, said, “The National Museum of African American History and Culture celebrates Black achievement year-round, but we look forward to taking time in February to explore art as a platform for understanding history, struggle, social justice and triumph. 

In doing that, we will put the spotlight on paintings, sculpture, photographs and fiber works that were made to mobilize people to create a better world by harnessing the power of protest, defiance and resilience.”

This month I encourage everyone to turn their attention towards black history and follow along with empowered black leaders in today’s public eye.

  Don Haskins

In 1966 Texas Western basketball coach, Don Haskins, was the first ever college basketball coach to start an all black lineup during an NCAA Championship game. 

The black players who led the miners to victory at the championship game included Bobby Joe Hill, David Lattin, Willie Worsley, Orsten Artis, and Nevil Shed, Willie Cager, and Harry Flournoy. 

This team completely altered college basketball and opened the door to opportunity for many black basketball players. 

These individuals stood up against social injustices and took a stand against racism. 

A movie called Glory Road was released in order to share their story. 

In the movie, basketball player, Willie Cager, said, “They’re trying to take our dignity away from us.” 

Coach, Don Haskins, replied saying, “Your dignity’s inside you. Nobody can take something away from you that you don’t give them.” 

Black History Month emphasizes not letting anyone take away your dignity, especially not anyone who looks down on you simply because of the color of your skin. 

Advocate 

Promote Black History Month by learning about black historical figures and educating those around you. 

Racism is a problem that is far from over and it is important to never forget about the historical figures who put their lives on the line in order to put an end to racial injustices. 

Former First Lady of the United States, Michelle Obama, said, “History has shown us that courage can be contagious, and hope can take on a life of its own.”

By advocating and spreading the history of courageous black historical figures it can inspire a theme of unity in hopes of putting an end to racism.