ALEX BUCKNAM
Asst. News Editor
Since 1976, February has been recognized as Black History Month.
First recognized by President Gerald Ford, the concept dates all the way back to the original founder, historian Carter G. Woodson, in 1926.
Woodson first started realizing during his educational experience to escape poverty that Black history was disinformed or completely missing from textbooks.
To fix this issue, he created what is now known as the Association for the Study of African-American Life and History (ASALH).
Meeting by meeting and page by page, Black Americans were able to rewrite and continue to write themselves correctly.
Because of the growing support that the ASALH was receiving, Woodson decided to celebrate the second week of February to coincide with Abraham Lincoln’s and Frederick Douglass’ birthdays.
During the Civil Rights Movement of 1960, there was a growing demand for Black American culture to be celebrated.
26 years after Woodson passed away, President Ford eventually declared that February would be known as Black History Month.
So what events can you see on campus to celebrate and learn more about Black History Month? According to the Black Student Union’s (BSU) Instagram (@bsufredonia), they are hosting:
- Kahoot night on Feb. 5
- Squid Games on Feb. 8
- Student Leadership Panel on Feb. 12
- Pop-up shop on Feb. 15
- White & Gold Party on Feb. 22
BSU’s Instagram states that with these events, students can expect “a series of powerful events that honor, educate and uplift!”
The locations of these events were not posted; students can reach out to BSU to inquire about more details.
Another event that will be held on campus is the Fredonia Rally For Freedom, happening Feb. 7 at 12 p.m.
This will be a march starting at University Commons and will go around campus. At the end of the march, speeches will be read.
The purpose of this march is to stand in solidarity with immigrants and the LGBTQ+. community. Students who would like to learn more about this event can contact Micaela LaBarbera at laba7213@fredonia.edu.