Celebrated in February, Black History Month is an annual observance of achievements by African Americans and their central role in U.S. history. It was first proposed when Harvard-educated historian Carter G. Woodson and community activist Jesse E. Moorland, founded what is now the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, or the ASALH. In 1926, ASALH launched a "Black History Week" to address the underrepresentation of African Americans in the study of American history
February was chosen because it encompasses both abolitionist Frederick Douglass’ birthday on February 14 and President Abraham Lincoln’s birthday on February 12. In 1976, as part of the nation’s bicentennial, the week was expanded to a month.
Join Irvine Valley College for a celebration of Black History all throughout the month of February!
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