In 1926, the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLH) supplemented Negro History Month to honor the achievements of African-Americans. The second week in February was set as the date of Negro History week because it contained the birthdays of Lincoln, who abolished slavery, and Frederick Douglass, who escaped slavery to become an anti-slavery activist.

The week long celebration was dedicated to encourage the teaching of Black history in schools across the nation so that all students may achieve a greater understanding of the role African-Americans played in America’s history.

The week of celebration broadened its audience during the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960’s by transitioning into a month of Black history.

Since the transition from a week to a month, Black history month has faced much controversy. Annually, this holiday sparks a racism debate.

I believe Black history month should be celebrated in honor of the struggle African-Americans have had throughout history. With the ever present racism, all Americans must try to honor the positive contributions of the race that has been put down throughout American history.

Sophomore Evelyn Larson fully supports Black history month. “I am in full support of Black history month as a way to advocate for equality through all races,” Larson said. “It is an opportunity to honor African American achievements and recognize parts of history that are often neglected.”

Above all else, Larson believes that is important to bring attention to the struggles of the oppressed people (past and present), rather than the already privileged oppressors.

Senior Brandon Sinagra supports Black history month as well. “I don’t think [Black history month] is racist; It’s just a popular time period that a lot of history has been made during. I think it was created to promote black people to feel proud of their accomplishments.” Sinagra said.

Sinagra further explains that Black History Month is a time period to be proud of yourself no matter what race. “It is not a time where people celebrate superiority over another race, but is rather a month of ‘be proud of yourself and who you are’.”

Ultimately, Black history month is our country’s history and encourages race equality across the nation. I hope that one day Black history month will influence other months to celebrate not only Black history, but the history of all races.

Info found at: http://www.history.com/topics/black-history/black-history-month