NIKKI INDELICATO
Assistant Life & Arts Editor
It has been 46 years since Black History Month was first designated to be nationally observed in the month of February. Since then, the importance and celebration for it has continued to grow year after year.
But just like any celebration, it’s important to learn about the origins and where it all started.
Black History Month began as a week-long celebration of the history of the achievements made by African Americans and others of African descent. It was originally held in 1926, during the second week of February to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Fredrick Douglass, according to History.com
Over the years, this week-long celebration eventually evolved into what it is today.
Black History Month was officially recognized by President Gerald Ford in 1976 and we look at it as a time to honor the contributions and legacies that African Americans have given to U.S. history and society.
The importance of this month is also shared within our community between the events that are held on campus sponsored by the Black Student Union and also bringing awareness to the month.
“It’s important to celebrate Black History Month because it’s key to remember the past, so we can appreciate the present and position ourselves to strive for our desired future,” said Markasia McCreary, President of the Black Student Union (BSU).
“I think it’s an opportunity for the campus to leave an impression on, not only its students, but the surrounding community given the message that Fredonia supports diversity, and in this case, Black History Month,” said David White, Director of Multicultural Support Services.
On Feb. 6, BSU kicked off the month with their annual opening ceremony, which was then followed by Solidarity Week. Solidarity Week is a themed week held annually where everyone has the opportunity to dress to a certain theme each day.
BSU also decided to help bring some joy for Valentine’s Day by creating Rose Grams that will be delivered anonymously to both students and staff around campus. All the proceeds gained from this event will be donated to the African American Cultural Center in Buffalo NY.
In conjunction with the Intercultural Center (IC), there will be a Q&A session with IC alumni to give students an opportunity to ask questions about college, life after college and mental health.
On Feb. 23, BSU and the IC will be bringing in virtual keynote speaker, Dr. Nyle Fort, to talk about Critical Race Theory, protest and democracy.
To close out the month, BSU will be holding their “Dress to Impress” closing ceremony banquet.
“Closing Ceremony is my favorite BHM event because it is a time to acknowledge members or staff of their dedication and support to our group,” said McCreary.
Even though there are many events going on throughout campus, it’s important to remember the significance of the month.
“Far too often institutions and campuses only celebrate Black history during February and African American history is American history,” said White. “So like other components of history, we should be celebrated and recognized 365 days a year, not just 28.”
Even past February, there are ways to keep spreading awareness and the message of Black History Month going throughout the year.
“The simplest way to continue to shed light on the contributions is on those contributors. It is important to shed a brighter light and acknowledge the significant contributions of African Americans. There are more contributors than just Dr. Martin Luther King, Malcolm X, Harriet Tubman, Rosa Parks and Fredrick Douglass… What about Garrett Morgan who invented the traffic signal and gas mask, Alexander Miles, [who improved] the elevator, Dr. Charles Drew — blood plasma, and Tom Marshal, the fire extinguisher… to name a few,” said White.
Also, by having ongoing support from students on campus and the surrounding community, the message can be continued to spread through everyone.
“Come to our events, experience our culture, our discussions and our perspective,” said McCreary.