Black History Month Commemorations

Introduction 

February is known as Black History Month. The reasoning behind this is because it has the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglas who both played major roles in ending slavery. The history behind it began as a way to remember important people and events in the history of African Americans. Initially lasting a week and known as Negro History Week, it evolved into a month-long celebration in 1970. The countries that mainly celebrate this are Canada and the United States.  

Commemorations 

Black history month is widely celebrated through various events, programs, and initiatives that honour the achievements and history of black individuals. Educational institutions, such as schools, organize lectures, discussions, and films to educate on the impact of black historical figures. Museums and cultural centers host exhibitions showcasing African contributions to art, science, politics, and social movements.  

In Canada, black history month is marked by festivities and events that honor the legacy of black Canadians. The 2025 theme for Canada is, "Black Legacy and Leadership: Celebrating Canadian History and Uplifting Future Generations," this theme acknowledges the leadership of black people and their legacy. 

In the US the 2025 theme for black history month is the theme is "African Americans and Labor," which focus on the diverse roles and contributions of black individuals in the working class. 

Conclusion 

Black History Month serves as a vital period for recognizing and celebrating the profound impact of Black individuals in mainly the United States and Canada (the UK and Ireland also celebrate it but in October). Through various commemorations, which reflect on past struggles and achievements. 

Bibliography 

Annual celebration of Black history Container: Wikipedia.org Publisher: Wikimedia Foundation, Inc.  Year: 2004 URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_History_Month 

Istockphoto.com URL: https://www.istockphoto.com/pt/fotos/black-history-month?msockid=12081baeb09869770e740ad2b4986f4d 

Black History Month 2025 

By MarkOtto Container: Blackhistorymonth.govYear: 2025URL: https://blackhistorymonth.gov/ 

February is Black History Month - Canada.ca By Canadian Heritage Container: Canada.ca  Year: 2025 URL: https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/black-history-month.html  

Black History Month 2024: Facts, Origins & Quotes | HISTORY 

By Christian ZapataContainer: HISTORY Year: 2010(original) 2025(edited) URL: https://www.history.com/topics/black-history/black-history-month