When many people think of February, Valentine's Day may immediately come to mind. Despite the significance of this holiday in that it allows participants to declare their love for the important people in their lives, February also represents an entire month of celebrating the achievements of African Americans throughout American history. February is Black History Month.
In 1926, historian Carter G. Woodson established the second week in February as Negro History Week to emphasize the importance of African American contributions to the United States. William Van Deburg, professor of African American studies at UW-Madison, said this week was chosen because it contains the birthdates of both Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, two people who strongly impacted African Americans.
According to Gary Sandefur, professor of sociology at UW-Madison, Black History Month brings to the American public the traditions and history of African Americans.
\I think it's really important to do because many people in the United States are not familiar with African American history,"" Sandefur said.
""[African Americans] have had a significant role in the shaping of America from the time [they] arrived to the present date,"" Anthony Brown, Executive Director of the Equal Opportunities Commission of Madison, said.
In celebration of these achievements, various events are taking place on the UW-Madison campus:
u On Saturday, Feb. 22, the Wisconsin Black Student Union will sponsor the presence of Eugene Cane, an African American writer and reporter, to speak in honor of Black History Month.
u On Thursday, Feb. 27, a reception for Dr. Cathy Royal, specialist in diversity management, race and gender relations, will be held in the Multicultural Student Center Lounge at 6:30 pm.
u On Friday, Feb. 28, Dr. Jawanza Kunjufu, an educator and president of African American Image communications company, will speak.
""I am glad the Multicultural Student Center and other student organizations are putting their energy towards promoting special events,"" Sandefur said.
In addition to events held on the UW campus, various events will take place nationwide. Likewise, special television programs will honor Black History Month.
With regards to the decline in discrimination against African Americans since the slave era, many people still agree that this minority group continues to face racial prejudice and stereotypes.
""I think that while we have made some progress with respect to race relations, we still have a long way to go,"" Brown said.
Certainly, the one-month recognition of African Americans is important to many Americans. However, some people would like to note that the history of African Americans should be remembered throughout the entire year.
According to Brown, ""Black history ought to be incorporated in the fabric of our lives all year round.\
