Black History Month: February 2024 and African Americans and the Arts

Black History Month, observed annually in February, is a time to honor and celebrate the achievements, contributions, and resilience of Black individuals throughout history.  Also known as African American History Month, the roots of celebrating all-month long can be traced back to the pioneering efforts of Dr. Carter G. Woodson, an African American historian, and educator. In 1926, Dr. Woodson initiated the concept of "Negro History Week" to raise awareness about the significant achievements and contributions of African Americans that had been largely overlooked or neglected in mainstream historical narratives.

Dr. Woodson chose the second week of February to coincide with the birthdays of two prominent figures in African American history: Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. This week-long celebration aimed to promote the study of African American history in schools and communities across the United States.

Over time, Negro History Week grew in popularity and significance, leading to its expansion into a month-long observance. In 1976, during the United States Bicentennial, President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month, urging the nation to "seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history."

Since then, Black History Month has become a time for people from all backgrounds to learn, reflect, and appreciate the rich legacy of African Americans. It serves as a reminder of the importance of inclusivity, diversity, and equality in shaping a more just society.  The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) is an organization founded by Woodson.  It promotes, researches, and preserves African American history and culture and publishes the Journal of African American History, and promotes a better understanding of the African American experience. Each year, ASALH chooses a theme for Black History Month. In 2023, the theme was “Resistance”. Here is a look at previous themes…

·      2022: Black Health and Wellness

·      2021: "The Black Family: Representation, Identity, and Diversity"

·      2020: "African Americans and the Vote"

·       2019: "Black Migrations"

·      2018: "African Americans in Times of War"

·       2017: "The Crisis in Black Education"

·      2016: "Hallowed Grounds: Sites of African American Memories"

·      2015: "A Century of Black Life, History, and Culture"

·      2014: "Civil Rights in America"

·      2013: "At the Crossroads of Freedom and Equality: The Emancipation Proclamation and the March on Washington"

·      2012: "Black Women in American Culture and History"

·      2011: "African Americans and the Civil War"

·      2010: "The History of Black Economic Empowerment"

·      2009: "The Quest for Black Citizenship in the Americas"

·      2008: "Carter G. Woodson and the Origins of Multiculturalism"

·      2007: "From Slavery to Freedom: Africans in the Americas"

These themes reflect important aspects of African American history, culture, and contributions to society. Each theme aims to educate and raise awareness about the experiences and achievements of Black individuals and communities.

The 2024 Black History Month Theme

In 2024, the theme for Black History Month is "African Americans and the Arts," shining a spotlight on the profound impact and enduring legacy of African American artists across various mediums.From the days of slavery to the present, African American artists have used their creativity and talent to express their experiences, challenge societal norms, and uplift their communities.

Visual Arts

African American artists have made invaluable contributions to the visual arts, leaving an indelible mark on the canvas of American art history. From the renowned works of artists such as Jean-Michel Basquiat, Romare Bearden, and Faith Ringgold to the contemporary masterpieces of Kehinde Wiley and Kara Walker, African American artists have pushed boundaries, challenged conventions, and offered unique perspectives through their creations. This theme invites us to delve into the diverse expressions of African American visual artists and celebrate their profound influence.

Literary Excellence

African American writers have crafted powerful narratives that shed light on the African American experience, providing a platform for voices that were long marginalized. From the poignant works of Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, and Maya Angelou to the contemporary brilliance of Ta-Nehisi Coates, Jesmyn Ward, and Jacqueline Woodson, African American literature offers a rich tapestry of stories, struggles, and triumphs. The 2024 Black History Month theme encourages us to engage with these literary treasures and recognize the invaluable contributions of African American writers. This month on our social media education series, you will meet a writer who’s work was not discovered until nearly 2 decades after her death.

Celebrating Performing Arts

The performing arts have been a vital avenue for African Americans to express their creativity, passion, and resilience. From the pioneering efforts of jazz legends like Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington to the groundbreaking achievements of actors such as Sidney Poitier, Hattie McDaniel, and Viola Davis, African Americans have made significant contributions to music, dance, theater, and film. Through their talent and artistry, they have challenged stereotypes, broken barriers, and paved the way for future generations. The theme of African Americans and the Arts calls on us to celebrate the incredible impact of African Americans in the performing arts.

The 2024 Black History Month theme "African Americans and the Arts" invites us to reflect upon and celebrate the immense contributions of African American artists throughout history. From visual arts to literature, performing arts, and music (which we will showcase in another blog post), African Americans have enriched the artistic landscape with their creativity, resilience, and unique perspectives.

By exploring and appreciating the achievements of African American artists, we gain a deeper understanding of their experiences, their impact on society, and their enduring legacy. Let us take this opportunity to embrace and honor the rich fabric of African American artistic contributions during this Black History Month and beyond.