February 1, 2024
BUILD I Black History Month 2024
A focus on African American arts and artisans is the theme for Black History Month 2024.
Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing their central role in U.S. history. Also known as African American History Month, American historian Carter G. Woodson pioneered the field of African American studies in the early 20th century. Carter Godwin Woodson was born in 1875 to former slaves and, as the second African American to earn a doctorate from Harvard, became one of the first scholars of African American history¹.
“Those who have no record of what their forebears have accomplished lose the inspiration which comes from the teaching of biography and history.”
― Dr. Carter G. Woodson
Inspired by having attended a three-week national celebration of the 50th anniversary of emancipation in 1915, Woodson joined four others in founding the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLH) to encourage scholars to engage in the intensive study of the Black past, a subject that had long been sorely neglected by academia and in U.S. schools. Since 1976, every U.S¹. president has officially designated the month of February as Black History Month. Other countries around the world, including Canada and the United Kingdom, also devote a month to celebrating Black history.
February was chosen by Woodson because it coincides with the birthdates of both former US President Abraham Lincoln and social reformer Frederick Douglass. Both men played a significant role in helping to end slavery.
In 2024, we examine the varied history and life of African American arts and artisans . We explore the creativity and innovation of African American artists, writers, and performers who have made significant contributions to American culture and to the world at large. Additionally, we wish to recognize the contributions of individuals who have made a significant contribution to preserving and advancing the art and culture of African Americans.
National Life Group remains committed to BUILD (Blacks Uplifted in Leadership Development)In 2024, National Life Group will continue to focus on recruiting, retaining, sustaining, and elevating our presence in middle America, specifically the Black community.
Dr. Carter G. Woodson
1.) ASALH – the founders of Black History Month – Association for the study (2024).
