Not only is today the start of a new month but also the beginning of Black History Month!! First established as Negro History Week in 1926 by historian Carter G. Woodson, Woodson created this holiday to not “dictate or limit the exploration of the Black experience, but to bring to the public’s attention important developments that merit emphasis.” I also take this to mean that Black History Month while celebrated in February can and should be celebrated all year round.
As part of the celebration, The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) establishes yearly themes that “reflect changes in how people of African descent in the United States have viewed themselves, the influence of social movements on racial ideologies, and the aspirations of the black community.” This year’s theme is “African Americans and the Arts.”
African American art is infused with African, Caribbean, and the Black American lived experiences. In the fields of visual and performing arts, literature, fashion, folklore, language, film, music, architecture, culinary and other forms of cultural expression, the African American influence has been paramount. African American artists have used art to preserve history and community memory as well as for empowerment. Artistic and cultural movements such as the New Negro, Black Arts, Black Renaissance, hip-hop, and Afrofuturism, have been led by people of African descent and set the standard for popular trends around the world. In 2024, we examine the varied history and life of African American arts and artisans.
ASALH-Black History Themes
This year’s theme really hits home for me as a scholar whose work encompasses the arts from a comic book and pop culture standpoint. I look forward to not only showcasing my work but others in the arts as well!
To jumpstart the day, see the following Black History facts:
- In 1773, Phillis Wheatley became the first Black American poet to publish a book of verse.
- In 1878, Marie Selika Williams was the first Black musician to sing at the White House.
- In 1948, Gordon Parks was hired as the first Black staff photographer at Life magazine.
As you join in on this year’s celebration, check out these resources and tools that will provide additional insight into this cultural celebration:
- Origins of Black History Month
- Celebrating Black History Month-NMAAHC
- White House-A Proclamation on National Black History Month-2024
- Black History Month 2024-Oprah Daily
Black Future Feminist 