Celebrating Black History
While we often think of “history” as this far off portion of time that is not relatable, its important to recognize how recent the start of Black History Month really was. BHM was first proposed by black educators and the Black United Students at Kent State University in February 1969 and the first celebration of Black History Month took place at Kent State one year later, from February 2 to February 28, 1970. Only in the last 51 years have we been celebrating the role Black Americans have had in building our nation and shaping our current reality. Six years after the initial celebration, Black History Month was being celebrated all across the country in educational institutions, centers of Black culture and community centers, large and small, when President Ford officially recognized Black History Month in 1976, during the celebration of the United States Bicentennial.
BHM is celebrated during February and brings our attention to the unique struggles and triumphs of the Black community. At NISOA, we’re focused on being an inclusive organization and using our platform for good. We’re excited to spotlight our successful members and use our platform to share their stories and bring us closer together in understanding and supporting one another.
