From its beginning in 1915, the celebration of African American History and Life, organized by Carter G. Woodson, was never meant to be only ceremonial. It was intended to be reflective, instructive and reparative.
Each year, the organization Woodson established has anchored the observance in a guiding theme, encouraging the nation to take stock of where it has been and where it stands. This year’s theme recognizes the 100th year anniversary of “the exploration of the impact and meaning of Black History and life commemorations in transforming the status of Black peoples in the modern world.”
The theme is timely. Black History Month has always called the nation to reflect on past achievements and present realities. Among the most pressing of those realities today is the condition of Black women, particularly as it relates to economic stability and maternal healthcare. These realities did not arise in a vacuum; they are the cumulative result of historic inequities reinforced by current policies…