Black History Month

Black History Month is a time where we recognize the key roles, contributions, and sacrifices of African Americans throughout U.S. history. This month-long observance grew from an initiative by Carter G. Woodson, a brilliant and highly accomplished son of slaves, to honor the heritage and achievements of African Americans with a week-long celebration in 1926.

In 1976, President Gerald Ford designated February as Black History Month, urging all Americans to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.” Every U.S. President since then has issued a proclamation in honor of Black History Month. Today, countries all over the world also dedicate a month to celebrating Black History Month.

Recognizing and celebrating Black History Month:

Unites us - Celebrating diversity and recognizing its beauty brings us together. It helps us to learn about people from different cultures and backgrounds, and to understand how we are all connected.
Celebrates diversity - Black History Month does not just promote diversity; it celebrates diversity. Promoting diversity is bringing awareness to the idea that we are all diverse and we all have something to contribute. But when we celebrate diversity, we are conveying the idea that diversity is beautiful. A celebration goes beyond recognizing the achievements of African Americans. It publicly honors these men and women. It tells their wonderful stories in a way that makes us realize how they have impacted our lives—how our lives would not be the same if these people did not take risks to accomplish amazing things.
Helps us understand the importance of our stories - Black History Month is about sharing and celebrating the stories of countless men and women who made a difference in our world. Some achievements are noted more than others. But all of their stories reveal how they changed the world...and how we can, too.

Plans for Black History Month - February 2025 are underway! If you have ideas or would like to be a part of our event planning, we’d love to hear from you!
Email: livingstondiversitycouncil@gmail.com

I have been fortunate to attend many recent events presented by the Livingston Diversity Council (LDC), including several celebrating Black History Month. My experiences have been positive, without exception. The LDC exposes me to performances and ideas I can usually only find when traveling outside of Livingston County. Their events have a commonality: a vibe of creativity, information, and inclusiveness. And equally important is their entertainment value. I have fun attending an LDC event, and that's worth something! - Kathleen M.