“Diversity is not about how we differ. Diversity is about embracing one another’s uniqueness.” —Ola Joseph
Since 1976, February has been designated African-American History Month, or Black History Month. Our public schools spend the month of February remembering and celebrating significant historical figures and events that have shaped our country’s rich black history. Our students are reminded of the importance of diversity and inclusion. They study prominent African-American leaders and momentous events. Teachers highlight African-American authors like Maya Angelou and Toni Morrison and historical locations and events in places like Selma, Birmingham, and Montgomery. School hallways and classroom doors are decorated with tributes and quotes celebrating contributions African-Americans have made to our country’s lush diversity.
Have you ever wondered why we celebrate in February? Here are some interesting facts regarding African-American history in February:
- Both black abolitionist and writer Frederick Douglass and President Abraham Lincoln were born in February.
- The 13th Amendment of the United States Constitution abolishing slavery was adopted by the 38th Congress on February 1st, 1865.
- The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was passed on February 10th, 1964, officially ending segregation in public schools and facilities.
- The NAACP was founded in February 1909.
Check out how some of our Gulf Coast- area schools honored Black History Month!
Clear Creek ISD’s Clear Springs High School students hold an annual Black History Month performance which involves songs, poems, and dance to tell a story related to a Black History theme.
https://www.facebook.com/FortBendISD/videos/2644743192425170/
Ft Bend ISD’s Rosa Parks Elementary students celebrated the life of the school’s namesake on what would have been her 107th birthday.
Hasse Elementary art students in Alvin ISD participated in the Rubik’s cube challenge, combining geometry, problem-solving, and art. They were given 225 cubes to create a mosaic of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
