As we begin February, we mark the beginning of Black History Month.
Black History Month dates back to 1915 when Charter G. Woodson founded the Association for the Study of African American Life and History as a way to encourage others to popularize and promote the achievements of the Black community. In February of 1926 he announced the first “Negro History Week.” He chose February because it encompasses the birthday of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month in 1976, and urged Americans to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”
Internationally, Black History Month is observed by a variety of countries. The United Kingdom first celebrated Black History Month in October of 1987, Germany in 1990, Canada in 1995, the Republic of Ireland in 2010, and France in 2018. Africa was celebrated in seven countries for the first time in 2020, including Benin, Burkina Faso, Tscha, Ivory Coast, Comores, Senegal, and Cameroon. From 2021 onwards, an African History Month is celebrated in March.
At the Daniel Cracchiolo Law Library, Kristen Keck curated a large display of books celebrating the life and achievements of the black community. The book display is located in the stacks nearest the front entrance and lobby. Special thanks to Tianna Williams, member of our College of Law's Black Law Students Association, for her input and recommendations on title selection.
Titles include:
Events on University of Arizona campus and Tucson:
Tuesday, February 7, 2023: Black History Month Kick-Off Open House
Friday, February 3, 2023: Fireside Chat with Stacey Snowden
Friday, February 10, 2023: UPROOTED: Screening & Discussion
Tuesday, February 28, 2023: Social Art-ivism: Black Panther Culture, From Oakland to the World
The African American Museum of Southern Arizona opened its doors on January 14. The new museum, located on the University of Arizona campus (Student Union, Room 244) will highlight the contributions the African American Community has made to Southern Arizona and the world.
Other Resources:
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