Black History Month ain't just a tradition; it's a movement. We created this month to honor where we come from and celebrate what we've built. But it’s also a reminder that Black folks have always been great, no matter what lies society tries to tell us. They may want to erase our hard work, but nah—this is our time to remind them and ourselves of the truth.
Let’s start with the basics. Black History Month began in 1926, founded by Dr. Carter G. Woodson, a Black historian who knew how important it was to control our own narratives. At the time, there was little to no recognition of the impact Black folks had on history. Woodson called it "Negro History Week," purposely aligning it with the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln to create a period for reflection and pride.
Woodson wanted schools and communities to uplift our stories because if we didn’t tell them, no one else would. That vision expanded over the decades, turning into the month-long celebration we recognize today. Since 1976, every U.S. president has acknowledged February as Black History Month And yet, even with this official recognition, we still see disrespect for our contributions.
The Fight Against Erasure
It’s no coincidence that since 2016, there's been an increase in attacks on Black excellence. In this so-called "post-racial" era, mediocre palm-colored people have gone out of their way to undermine us. Black women in particular have been hit hard. We're called "diversity hires," as if we didn’t work twice as hard to get where we are. They act like our achievements are just handed to us. Let me break it down for you:
Black women are the most educated demographic in America. We continue to excel in higher education despite systemic obstacles.
Black women our the fastest grow in small businesses owners than ever. Entrepreneurship has always been a key to building generational wealth and empowering our communities.
We have always been innovators in every industry—technology, fashion, music, science, politics, and more. Just because they don’t teach it in schools doesn’t mean it’s not true.
Despite all of that, people still try to reduce us to stereotypes. They ignore our success and attempt to strip away opportunities we’ve fought for. We see it with politicians trying to erase Black history from textbooks and policies aimed at dismantling diversity initiatives in workplaces. But Black History Month exists to counter all that. We are here to make sure the truth is heard—loud and clear.
Teaching Our Kids the Truth All Year
Here’s the thing—we don’t need anyone to acknowledge what we already know. We don't need their permission to celebrate ourselves. Our ancestors taught us that education is liberation, so we must take it into our own hands. The real key to honoring our roots is teaching our children all year round. We need to read to them, encourage them to write, and make sure they know their history so all is not lost.
Platforms like HillmanTok University on TikTok are already stepping up, using creativity to educate and inspire. These kinds of community-led initiatives are critical because, if history has taught us anything, it's that we’ll be stronger no matter what they throw at us. Reading, writing, and knowing our truth keeps our power intact.
Our kids need to understand where they come from—not just in February but every single day. By equipping them with knowledge, we're giving them tools to not only survive but thrive. We’re building leaders who will take us to the top, with or without anyone else’s validation.
Why Black History Month Still Matters
Some folks like to ask, "Why do we even need Black History Month? Isn’t it divisive?" You know what’s divisive? Erasing the truth. This month is about reclaiming our power and sharing stories that inspire the next generation. Our history isn’t just about survival; it’s about thriving, creating, and leading.
This year, honoring our roots hits harder because of everything we've endured and overcome. We continue to push for change, not just for ourselves but for the culture. The beauty of Black History Month is that it brings both reflection and celebration. We celebrate our ancestors and current heroes, all while reflecting on the path ahead.
Let’s not forget, Black history is American history. From the invention of the traffic light by Garrett Morgan to the groundbreaking work of Katherine Johnson at NASA, we are everywhere. We built this country—literally and figuratively. Our influence is undeniable, even when it’s unacknowledged. That's why this month is not just a symbolic gesture; it’s a necessary reminder.
What Can You Do to Honor Our Roots?
Educate Yourself and Others: Share stories of Black achievements. Read up on pioneers like Ida B. Wells, W.E.B. Du Bois, and Shirley Chisholm.
Support Black-Owned Businesses: We continue to innovate and drive the economy. Spend your dollars where they uplift and invest in our communities.
Show Up for the Culture: Attend events, art exhibits, and panels highlighting Black creators. Uplift the voices around you, especially those often silenced.
Challenge Stereotypes: Call out microaggressions and false narratives. Advocate for real change in your circles and communities.
Reflect and Connect: Take a moment to honor your ancestors. What did they fight for? How are you continuing their legacy?
The Future of Our History
As much as we look to the past during Black History Month, we also focus on the future. We are the blueprint, the pioneers of cultural expression, community empowerment, and resilience. Black women, men, and children—every single one of us—carry the strength of generations before us.
This ain't just about one month. It’s a lifelong commitment to honoring our roots and making sure our stories never fade. So, this February, stand tall and let the world know that Black history is living, breathing, and thriving.
They can’t take away what’s in our DNA.
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