The History of Black history month

Black History Month “began” over a century ago with Carter G. Woodson in 1915. In Washington D.C., grand displays where shown as a way to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the emancipation for Black people. This caused black Americans to flock in from far and wide, many coming from across the United States. What was special about this exhibition is that it showed the progress black people have made since the abolishment of slavery nationwide. This left a deep impression on Woodson who wanted to extend the discussion of how black people have transformed their lives achieving what is called, “The American Dream.” Woodson and 3 other colleagues formed what was called “The Association for the Study of Negro Life and History” (ASNLH). Their goal was publishing and popularizing the success of black people in The Journal of Negro History. Slowly Black civic organizations began to notice Woodson’s work and by 1924 the creation of Negro History and Literature Week (also known as Negro Achievement Week) came about. Woodson wanted February to be the month where this recognition is held because those were the birthdays of two prominent Americans who helped shaped black history in a positive way. Although this celebration was relatively small during Woodson’s life, several decades after his death, Negro History Week gained more momentum; ultimately by 1976, it was institutionalized & celebration went from a week to a month giving us this month-long celebration of black achievements.

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01 Olayiwola Daniel Akinsulire

An aspiring architect with an amazing vision; not to mention an incredible gift for drawing.

02 Jaynan Evelyn

A full time cosmetologist who enjoys bringing an artistic twist to her makeup work.

03 Chelanti Frazier

A fashion designer that uses design to make powerful statements to society.

04 Simon - Peter Omooba

A man of many talents that realized that architecture was ultimately his calling.

05 Gabriela Gonjon

When there is a change she wants to occur, she takes action and leadership to ensure it.

06 Dedesky Miguel

Sometimes the toughest challenges in life provides the best opportunities to stand up.

07 Christina Corinne Bien-Aimé

An aspiring architect that believes being physically involved is as important as designing itself.

08 Malik Fequiere

A designer who’s love for architecture led to him beginning his very own publication.

09 Chanel T. Herbert

As an educator, there are many ways a message can be given to teach and encourage others.

10 Christian Johnson

He understands that not everyone is born with the same economic advantages, but that doesn’t have to hinder you.

11 Kaylá John

Her dreams are what motivated her as a young girl, little did she know it would be a powerful inspiration for others today.

12 Tyler Drew

He is aspiring to become a doctor for to become help those in need, especially the black community.

13 Giselle Carter

Her dreams to be an actress and model is rooted in her desire to express appreciation for black beauty.

14 Shane Drew

A young man trying to fit in discovers that the right formula requires a physical and internal balance.

15 Angie Natalya Njoroge

To Angie, architecture is like folding origami; the possibilities are limited to your imagination.