Black History Month
02/02/2022
Some of you may be wondering, why Black History Month? I say, why not. When historian Carter G. Woodson (1875-1950) first conceived of an annual Black History celebration in 1926, it was one week. That week fell near the birthdays of two celebrated men within the Afri-can American community, Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglas. We thank Dr. Woodson for recognizing and promoting the importance of Black history.
More than this, we recognize student-led protests— steeped in Black freedom struggles—of the 1960s and 1970s across many colleges and universities throughout the United States that called for Black History Month and Black Studies Departments. Black History Month was first officially recognized under President Gerald Ford in 1976.
As we welcome February and Black History Month, may we welcome the opportunity to appreciate and intentionally celebrate African Americans' contributions to the history of the US and the world. May we recognize painful historical truths, and illuminate exemplary milestones.
February is our opportunity to collectively assess where we are now and where we want to be. I encourage each of you to embrace the Akan principle of Sankofa this month, and throughout the 2022 year. Meaning, there is wisdom in learning from our past, which ensures a stronger future. I urge all of us to remember that Black history is American history, and it's important that throughout the year we continue to work on understanding the oppression faced by all people of color and the impact it has on future generations.
As a District and college community we can lead by example and embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion, not simply in theory, but in practice. As you learn more about Black history and partake in your local college's celebrations, may your reflection lead to action. I hope the next 28 days serve as more than a reminder, but a renewal of the movement.
In the words of the great Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., “The time is always right, to do what is right." Learn your history, go out, get involved, and be the difference you want to see.
Wolde-Ab Isaac, Ph.D.
RCCD Chancellor
Published by External Relations & Strategic Communications