The King County Council’s Equity and Social Justice Office wishes everyone a happy Black History Month! Black History Month is one of the oldest recognized history celebrations that highlights the many achievements of Black and African Americans. The story of Black History Month began in 1915 and was started by Carter G. Woodson, a founder of the Association for the Study of African American History. He originally came up with this idea to encourage Black and African Americans to become more interested in their own history and heritage. Woodson chose February as the month because it had the birthdays of Frederick Douglass, abolitionist and former slave and President Abraham Lincoln.
Black History Month was officially recognized in 1976 by President Gerald Ford and has been recognized by every US president since. Today, Black History Month continues to be a time to honor the contributions, achievements, and legacies of Black and African Americans across US history. This is everyone from activists and civil rights pioneers such Martin Luther King Jr., Sojourner Truth, Malcolm X, and Rosa Parks to leaders in the arts, education, politics, and more!
As we enter Black History and Futures Month, we set out to not only acknowledge the significant influence of Black History but also look ahead to a future shaped by equity, justice, and empowerment. Black Futures, as much as Black History, is important to recognize and celebrate. Therefore, though February is traditionally recognized as Black History Month, we broaden our focus to embrace the richness of the past and the boundless potential of the future.
Education and innovation
Black leaders continue to make groundbreaking, innovative contributions to education, spearheading breakthroughs in various fields. Valerie Montgomery Rice, MD, is president and CEO of Morehouse School of Medicine (MSM). She is an OB/GYN and world-renowned researcher dedicated to exploring infertility and addressing maternal mortality rates among Black women.
Representation in arts and culture
In the creative realm, influential Black creatives are guiding future generations of creatives and leaving indelible impacts in the arts and culture. Pat McGrath (Dame Patricia Ann McGrath) is one of the world’s most influential makeup artist, crafting looks for more than 80 major fashion shows a year. Most recently, McGrath created the iconic and currently trending “Liquid Glass” look for Maison Margiela’s Spring-Summer 2024 Haute Couture show. Founder of the beauty brand Pat McGrath Labs, McGrath continues to push the bounds of makeup and fashion with uniquely artistic and inspiring creations.
Social and economic empowerment
Many Black activists and entrepreneurs, fostering discussions on equity and inclusivity, are making strides in the ongoing work towards social and economic empowerment. Expressions by CC is an online conscious spiritual shop that aims to create loving, peaceful, and social impact that enhances people & the Earth. Their business provides natural and non-toxic items that include crystals, hand-made crystal jewelry, and books. Boon Boona Coffee supports coffee growers and the local community while sharing the unique coffee and coffee traditions of the Seattle area. See more here!
Black History and Futures Month honors resilience, celebrates progress and success, and envisions an inclusive and equitable future for everyone. In commemorating Black history, let’s collectively work towards a future where the ideals of unity, justice, and prosperity are not just aspirations but a lived reality for all. Through collaboration and community building, we can create a future that reflects the rich diversity and strength of the world.