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February is Black History Month

Last Updated: January 31, 2023

To commemorate this year’s Black History Month, Team AgLearn is providing information and resources to encourage engagement with this important annual month-long event.

The information below is a portion of content quoted from President Biden's Proclamation on National Black History Month, 2023 External Link.

"During National Black History Month, we celebrate the legacy of Black Americans whose power to lead, to overcome, and to expand the meaning and practice of American democracy has helped our Nation become a more fair and just society. This country was established upon the profound but simple idea that all people are created equal and should be treated equally throughout their lives.

Black Americans have made a way not only for themselves but also have helped build a highway for millions of women, immigrants, other historically marginalized communities, and all Americans to more fully experience the benefits of our society."

Background

It was Carter G. Woodson, the "father of Black history," who first set out in 1926 to designate a time to promote and educate people about Black history and culture. Woodson envisioned a weeklong celebration to encourage the coordinated teaching of Black history in public schools. He designated the second week of February as Negro History Week and galvanized fellow historians through the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History, which he founded in 1915. His purpose was to focus and broaden the nation's consciousness about Black life in the United States. The idea eventually grew in acceptance, and by the late 1960s, Negro History Week had evolved into what is now known as Black History Month. Protests around racial injustice, inequality and anti-imperialism that were occurring in many parts of the U.S. in the 1960s were pivotal to the change. Fifty years after the first celebrations, President Gerald R. Ford officially recognized Black History Month during the country's 1976 bicentennial. Ford called upon Americans to "seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”

USDA Event

USDA Observance of Black History Month External Link

When: February 9, 2023, 1:00pm - 2:30pm EST

Description: OASCR and APHIS are hosting a virtual program opened to all employees featuring opening remarks from Deputy Secretary Dr. Jewel Bronaugh. The theme for this year is Black Resistance, as set by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASSAALH) founded by Dr. Woodson.

In support of this year's theme, Dr. Eric and Phillitia Charlton will present: Intention, Resistance, and Post-Traumatic Growth. Their trauma-informed approach assists participants in addressing cultural and workplace climate awareness and recognizing the importance of professional emotional wellness.

Register for event at: USDA Observance of Black History Month External Link

Selected AgLearn Resources

USDA Resources

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