The History of Black History

Every February, Americans celebrate the contributions of African Americans to America. But how did this month come to be? And why? In 1926, Carter G. Woodson, a Harvard graduate whose parents were formerly enslaved, developed Negro History Week. He believed "the achievements of the Negro properly set forth will crown him as a factor in early human progress and a maker of modern civilization." In 1976, Negro History Week expanded into Black History Month (CNN). February was the chosen month to commemorate the birthdays of both Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln, who both played pivotal roles in ending slavery.

Some resources to assist teachers in commemorating the contributions of African Americans to American development, the economic growth of America, American society and culture, especially the arts, can be located here: Black History Month Resources . While this is not a comprehensive list, these resources will help teachers commemorate the month. San Diego Unified School District is currently in the process of “rewriting” history (classes) to be more inclusive of the diverse peoples who make up our district and nation. Exciting new resources are constantly being developed and we are working on making sure San Diego Unified School District students are literate in the role that diverse peoples have played and continue to play in our past, present, and future.

With new history content and resources, memorials such as The National Memorial for Peace and Justice in Alabama  and reconciliation by universities and other institutions that recognize their origins came from profits from slavery, America is slowly evolving to be a more inclusive nation. To recommend resources for teaching Black History, please contact jliebke@sandi.net.