By Dr. Queenie Johnson, KIPP SoCal Director of Equity
Black History Month is a time to honor the achievements, contributions, and resilience of Black individuals and communities throughout history. For educators, it’s also an opportunity to inspire students to engage with the rich and diverse narratives of Black history and culture.
The Evolution of Black History Month
In 1969, Black educators at Kent State proposed expanding Black History Week into a month-long celebration. Then, in 1976, President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month, now celebrated annually in February. Each year, ASALH announces a theme, and in 2025, it's "African Americans and Labor," highlighting the diverse contributions and experiences of Black people in the workforce. Let's honor the achievements and contributions of Black individuals and communities and continue to promote the importance of Black history and culture!
The Father of Black History Month: Carter G. Woodson
Carter G. Woodson, a pioneering historian and educator, is affectionately known as the Father of Black History Month. In 1926, he established Black History Week, which has since evolved into a month-long celebration of Black history and culture. Woodson, the second African American to earn a doctorate from Harvard University, was driven to promote the study of Black history after being excluded from conferences of the American Historical Association.
In 1915, he founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLH), now known as the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH). His mission was to scientifically document and publish Black history, ensuring it would not become a "negligible factor in the thought of the world. In 1916, Woodson launched the Journal of Negro History, which was renamed the Journal of African American History in 2022. His tireless efforts paved the way for future generations to embrace and celebrate Black history.
Exploring Black History in the Classroom
Want to engage students in meaningful discussions and activities that celebrate Black culture and history but don’t know where to start? Here are some valuable resources you can incorporate into your classroom:
- National Museum of African American History & Culture: Explore virtual exhibits, educational toolkits, and powerful stories highlighting Black achievements.
- Association for the Study of African American Life and History: Discover the latest theme, resources, and ideas for integrating Black history into your curriculum year-round.
- KIPP SoCal’s Black History Month Resource Guide (only accessible to KIPP SoCal team members): Curated tools and activities to spark student engagement and celebrate Black voices.
Celebrating Beyond February
As we honor the achievements and contributions of Black individuals, let us also go further and champion the importance of Black history and culture not just in February—but every day. Together, we can make Black history a vibrant, year-round presence in our classrooms and communities by amplifying voices, sharing untold stories, and celebrating the rich legacy that continues to shape our world.
Share your reflections, classroom activities, and celebrations with us on social media by tagging @kippsocal and using #KIPPSoCalBHM. Let’s keep the spirit of Black History Month alive throughout the year.