Let’s look at the inspiration of founder Dr. Carter G. Woodson
Did You Know?
Dr. Woodson is considered to be the Father of Black History.
Here’s His Story: Early in life, Dr. Woodson was exposed to education – as well as the lack of it – this unbalance of educational opportunity for African Americans was an obstacle, especially during the challenging times of the 1900s. According to naacp.org “Hungry for education, he was largely self-taught and had mastered common school subjects by the age of 17. Entering high school at the age of 20, Woodson completed his diploma in less than two years”.
In following years, Dr. Woodson proved just how impactful educators are by working as both a school teacher and principal, while also obtaining a degree in literature. “In addition to earning a Master’s degree from the University of Chicago, he became the second Black American after W.E.B. Du Bois [from] Harvard University.” Based on these experiences, Dr. Woodson went on to champion Black people’s achievements, which at that time were not mainstream, resulting in the founding of other Universities, such as Kent State.
These Universities have become Institutions, currently teaching Black Studies/Pan-African courses that highlight the Black experience throughout history. Due to combined efforts, the observation of Black History Month was conferred in February 1976, from President Gerald Ford whose words established Black History Month in an eloquent homage to Woodson and ASALH (Association for the Study of African American Life and History).
————————————-
References and Resources:
The History Of Black History Month: The Life Of Carter G. Woodson (5 minute podcast, the original is 10 minutes long)
https://naacp.org/find-resources/history-explained/civil-rights-leaders/carter-g-woodson