Touro Celebrates Black History Month

Each February, Touro honors Black History Month, which began as a celebration of the achievements of Black people throughout the history of the United States and as a recognition of the important role that they have played in the development of the nation. The month-long celebration is rooted in the original “Negro History Week,” which was first created by famed historian Carter G. Woodson. Though he never lived to see President Gerald Ford extend the celebration to a month in 1976, it was nonetheless his goal to encourage people to embrace this history so they might be “inspired . . . to live more abundantly, [and] learn to begin with life as they find it and make it better.” Today, millions of people across the nation honor the contributions of Black people to the United States during the month of February, and Touro will do so, as well.

RESOURCES:

The New York Times: How Negro History Week Became Black History Month and Why It Matters Now

Association for the Study of African American Life and History Schedule of Events celebrating the 2022 Black Health and Wellness month-long virtual festival.

National Museum of African American History & Culture Celebrates Black History Month

The New York State Senate - Black History Through the Ages, The Fight Continues: A Celebration in Honor of Black History Month

Black History Month Series at the Schomburg Center

The NYPR Archives - Celebrates Black History Month

PBS Showcases Rich Collection of Stories to Celebrate Black History Month 

Collections for African American Studies

Black Life in America