February Awareness: Black History Month
Photographed by Glodi Miessi
What Is Black History Month?
Black History Month has been celebrated for decades and it started as Black Americans celebrating the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. Lincoln and Douglass both are historical figures who advocated for the freedom of slaves.
Why Did It Originate?
Black History Month became a monthly celebration to bring light to all Black people who majorly assisted in the development of Black rights and equality. Black History Month honors all Black Americans who advocated for Black Rights between the start of the United States until now. Since February 12th, 1909, the NAACP has been fighting for Black equality in America, making large advancements over the past century.
How Can We Help?
A great way to support Black History Month is by supporting Black-owned businesses. Since the start of Covid-19, roughly twice as many Black business owners have had to shut down due to the pandemic compared to those of other ethnicities. Another way to support to Black History Month is by donating to charities such as NAACP, ACLU Foundation, National Black Child Institute, and many others!
Watch this video to learn more:
How YOU Can Help!
Support and empower the voices of those in the Black Community.
Donations
National
“The NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund is America’s premier legal organization fighting for racial justice. Through litigation, advocacy, and public education, LDF seeks structural changes to expand democracy, eliminate disparities, and achieve racial justice in a society that fulfills the promise of equality for all Americans” (LDF, About).
California
“To ensure that all Black Californians, regardless of their education, socio-economic class, zip code, sexual orientation, gender identity, homelessness, or immigration status have access to high quality and equitable primary and behavioral healthcare, and avoid unnecessarily succumbing to disease” (California Black Health Network, Our Mission).