By Layna Delgado
I often hear the question, “Why is Black History Month important?” Every time, I take the opportunity to educate people on the trailblazers who paved the way for women of color like myself, as well as for men, to be where they are today.
Black History Month was originally established by Carter G. Woodson on Feb. 7, 1926, as a week-long celebration that later expanded into a month-long observance. One of the reasons Woodson chose February was because both former President Abraham Lincoln and social reformer/abolitionist Frederick Douglass were born during this month. These two historical figures played a significant role in shaping Black history. This commemoration was just the beginning of what was to come.
On Feb. 10, 1976, President Gerald R. Ford became the first president to formally recognize Black History Month. His administration actively worked to uplift the Black community, making it clear that discrimination based on race, gender, color, national origin or sex should be eliminated. Before these official recognitions, prominent figures were already breaking barriers and setting the stage for progress.
One such trailblazer was Jackie Robinson, who shattered the color barrier in 1947 by becoming the first African-American to play in Major League Baseball in the modern era. In 1968, during a time of widespread racial injustice, Olympic athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos, both African-American track and field stars, raised their fists in a Black Power salute during the medal ceremony at the Mexico City Games. Their courageous stance symbolized resistance against racial inequality and inspired generations to come.
In more recent history, WNBA star Maya Moore made the bold decision to step away from her basketball career to focus on criminal justice reform. Her actions demonstrated that women of color, especially athletes, can contribute to society in ways far beyond what is often portrayed. Additionally, Robin Roberts made history as the first African-American woman sportscaster for ESPN and later received the Arthur Ashe ESPY Award for Courage after battling breast cancer and a rare blood disorder.
Recognizing the contributions of these individuals is crucial because without them, many of the opportunities available to African-Americans today would not exist. When people talk about “paving the way,” they are referring to the struggles these trailblazers endured so that future generations could have a better life.
It is important to celebrate Black History Month because it is a time to reflect on how far we have come as a community. However, while we have made significant progress, there is still more work to be done. Learning about, celebrating and contributing to the history of African-Americans is vital to ensuring continued progress and equality for all.
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