Black History Month (shorter)

1. Origins
2. Importance
3. First one
4. Themes
5. Icons = Alice Coachman
6. Icons = Martin Luther King
7. Celebrations

1st slide:
In 1915, Carter G. Woodson started ASNLH to talk about Black achievements. In 1926,
they began Negro History Week, and in 1976, President Gerald Ford made it Black
History Month, celebrating the important things Black Americans have done every
February.

2nd slide:
Black History Month is vital for celebrating achievements and addressing mental health
issues linked to problems like racism. It highlights the positive contributions of African
Americans, featuring figures like Martin Luther King Jr., Thurgood Marshall, Mae
Jemison, and Barack Obama, fostering inclusivity and understanding for everyone.

3rd slide:
It's important to clarify that while the concept of Black History Month as we know it
today began in 1926 with "Negro History Week", the first official, month-long
celebration actually took place in 1970. Here's how each unfolded:
1926 "Negro History Week":

 Initiated by Carter G. Woodson.

 Dates: Second week of February, coinciding with Lincoln and Douglass' birthdays.

 Events: Local celebrations included school activities, community parades, and

national media coverage.

 Impact: Raised interest in Black history, inspired heritage exploration, set the
foundation for recognition.

1970 Black History Month:

 Initiated at Kent State University.

 Dates: Feb 1st to March 1st ,1970

 Events: Campus lectures, exhibits, film screenings, music, and community forums.

 Impact: Gained national attention, spurred widespread adoption of Black History

Month, influenced future themes and approaches.

4th slide:
Since 1976, each U.S. president says February is Black History Month with a special
theme. The 2024 theme is "African Americans and the Arts," celebrating Black
contributions in arts, literature, culture, and cooking. It's about keeping history, feeling
strong, overcoming challenges, and shaping American culture. There are events all
February.

5th slide:
Born in 1923, Alice Coachman defied odds, winning the 1948 Olympic gold medal as the
first Black woman in high jump at 5' 6". Excelling in national championships, she
achieved in high jump, dashes, and relays. Coachman's groundbreaking endorsement
deal marked history, inspiring athletes to overcome challenges and reach greatness.
 6th slide:
 1929 (January 15): Martin Luther King, Jr. is born in Atlanta, Georgia.

 1955 (December 1): Rosa Parks refuses to give up her bus seat, leading to the
Montgomery Bus Boycott. King emerges as a leader in the civil rights movement.

 1956: The U.S. Supreme Court rules segregation on buses is unconstitutional,

marking a victory for the civil rights movement.

 1957: King helps found the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) to
coordinate civil rights activities.

 1963 (April 16): King writes the "Letter from Birmingham Jail," addressing racial
injustice.

 1963 (August 28): King delivers his famous "I Have a Dream" speech during the
March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom.

 1964: King is awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his nonviolent struggle against
racial discrimination.

 1965: King leads the successful Selma to Montgomery march for voting rights.

 1968 (April 4): Martin Luther King, Jr. is assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee.

 1986: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is established as a federal holiday in the United
States.

7th slide:

Sure, here are some details about celebrations of Black History Month 2024:

 Museum exhibits and events: Many museums across the country are hosting special
exhibits and events to celebrate Black history and culture. For example, the
Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture is hosting a new
exhibit called "Black Futures," which explores the history and future of Black innovation
and creativity.
 Film screenings and discussions: Libraries, community centers, and other
organizations are hosting screenings of films about Black history and culture, followed
by discussions.
 Educational programs: Schools and other organizations are offering educational
programs about Black history and culture. These programs can include
lectures, workshops, and performances.
 Community events: There are many community events happening throughout
February to celebrate Black history and culture. These events can include
festivals, parades, and cultural performances.