Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month in 1976, calling upon the public to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.” To commemorate and celebrate the contributions to our nation made by people of African descent, American historian Carter G. Woodson established Black History Week (then called “Negro History Week”) nearly a century ago. The event was first celebrated during the second week of February 1926.  February was chosen as Black History Month because the birthdays of the revered black abolitionist Frederick Douglass and President Abraham Lincoln fall during that month.

Countywide in Palm Beach County and The Palm Beach County Library System is offering virtual events throughout the month. Check out Black History Month Collection books and participate in Zoom topics such as baking, trivia, spiritual songs, film screenings and book discussions. Visit http://events.pbclibrary.org/events/digital-activities/black-history-month-2021. 

Since 1976, every American president has designated February as Black History Month and endorsed a specific theme. One of the many reasons we celebrate Black History Month is to honor the legacy that African Americans left behind and to integrate the nation’s moral obligations and change societal norms. The NAACP was founded in the month of February.

The Black History Month 2021 theme, “Black Family: Representation, Identity and Diversity” explores the African diaspora, and the spread of Black families across the United States. There is a host of documentaries and digital shorts that highlight the richness of the Black experience in American history. There are previews of films premiering this month on PBS, as well as a dozen films you can stream to celebrate Black history.  Make sure you also visit the feature: 28 Black History Makers in 28 Days to learn more about the lasting contributions of this group of 28 incredible individuals.