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On February 7th, 1926 Dr. Carter Godwin Woodson, a distinguished Black author, editor, publisher, and historian, was world renowned as the “Father of Black History”. He created the original concept of “Negro History Week” the precursor to Black History Month which was first proposed by Black educators and students at Kent State University in 1969 and then officially celebrated for the first time in 1970.
Born on on December 19th, 1875 in New Canton, Buckingham County, Virginia, Dr. Woodson was the son of former slaves Anne Eliza (Riddle) and James Henry Woodson. He was a Harvard Graduate, where he earned his PhD in History. Woodson became only the second African American, after W.E.B, Du Bois to obtain a PhD degree from Harvard University.
Dr. Woodson was the only person whose parents were enslaved in the United States to obtain a PhD. In addition to his historic and groundbreaking achievements, he was also the founder of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH). He was one of the first scholars to study the history of the African diaspora, including African-American history. He was also created The Journal of Negro History in 1916.
The significant and life changing contributions, brilliance and courage of so many African Americans like Dr. Woodson have created a foundation of strength, knowledge, perseverance and fortitude that can never be forgotten and will forever be ingrained into country’s history. I want to say thank you Dr. Woodson and to our ancestors. Thank you all for you sacrifice. We stand on your shoulders and will continue to elevate and celebrate your legacies for many generations to come.
As we celebrate the last day of Black History Month, we must remember that black history is not just an annual event, it’s an everyday reality of existence, resistance and persistence for people of color. Diversity and inclusion matter and it requires all us to exercise grace and space for each other in this world. We can not do it alone.
I dedicate this to my beautiful ancestors, my mother, Bebra, my grandmothers, Violet, Idell and Gladys. I wouldn’t be here without you.
To learn more about the important contributions of other great African Americans please click on the link below:
https://www.blackpast.org/african-american-history/101-firsts-african-american/
