#BlackHistoryMonth is the brainchild of historian Carter G. Woodson who announced in 1926 the second week of February as “Negro History Week” because it coincided with the February birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass that black communities have celebrated since the late nineteenth century.
In 1970, educators and students from Kent State University began celebrating #BlackHistoryMonth and its celebration spread across the U.S. at college campuses and black communities. President Ford acknowledged it during the 1976 bicentennial celebration, and Congress officially designated February #BlackHistoryMonth in 1986. It is now recognized around the world and officially celebrated in countries such as Canada, Ireland, Germany, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom.
#Black HistoryMonth exists to deliver what federal policy has not — the eradication of systemic racism by shedding light on African American voices and perspectives that are often overlooked in American history and literature. There is much debate about the validity and usefulness of #BlackHistoryMonth. Detractors argue that relegating the entire black human experience to one month is impossible, and that it is limiting and undesirable. While supporters maintain that the month-long recognition is a way to assure the names and stories of black citizens and heroes in history continue to be taught, recognized and remembered.
#2LeafPress, a small black/brown female led press, is dedicated to the acknowledgement, remembrance, and celebration of African American history and literature all year long, with books written by or about African Americans. To show our appreciation, applicable titles will be available for sale in print and ebook at a 20 percent discount, available only through University of Chicago Press. Just click on the book below and type in the discount code, AFAMSPECIAL. Offer good through February 29, 2020.
BUY 2LP DIRECT @ University of Chicago Press. EARNS MORE FOR ALL.
Happy reading!
