Black History Month, originally celebrated as Negro History Week, was signed into law in 1986 when Congress passed Public Law 99-244. The month-long celebration began earlier, though, in 1976 with the support of President Gerald Ford. The intent of Black History Month is to recognize and celebrate the contributions of African Americans to our history. February was chosen as it is the birth month of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln, two individuals who had a large impact on the lives of African Americans.

The Archdiocese of Seattle Catholic Schools has stressed that it is imperative that we celebrate Black History Month in our schools.  We, at Kennedy Catholic, agree. The Archdiocese has shared suggestions as to how we can celebrate in schools, as well as in our own lives. 

A few ideas & resources:

• Learn more about the history of Black History Month
• Celebrate Black saints and Catholic figures of color
• Support a Black-owned business in our area
• Visit the Northwest African American Museum either in person or virtually
• Donate to a local Black organization
• Support a Black creative artist, poet, musician
• Read a book by a Black author
• Donate to a Historically Black College or University (HBCU)
• Learn about an unsung hero in Black history
• Learn the lyrics to Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing
• Read a biography of a historical Black figure

Take one of these ideas or create your own.  The point is just to spend time learning about the lives and past of African Americans in our community and celebrating who they are.

Source: Archdiocese of Seattle Catholic Schools