Celebrating Black History Month

Black History Month, also known as African American History Month, celebrates the contributions and accomplishments of Black Americans and is observed annually during the entire month of February.  

The theme this year for Black History Month is African Americans and Arts, which aims to highlight the impact that Black Americans have had on art, music, and cultural movements throughout American history.

Black History Month coincides with Frederick Douglas’ and Abraham Lincoln’s birthdays in February – and was first celebrated in 1970 at Kent State University.

Six years later in 1976, Black History Month was being celebrated nationwide at educational institutions and Black cultural centers. This came on the heels of 
President Gerald Ford recognizing Black History Month during the United States’ Bicentennial celebration that year.

Here are some great ways that you, your family, friends, and even colleagues can observe Black History Month:

• Read books by Black authors
• Support Black-owned businesses
• Donate to Black nonprofit organizations
• Watch films that feature Black actors/actresses/directors
• Learn more about Black American figures that you might not be as familiar with such as Frederick Douglas, Sojourner Truth, and Booker T. Washington.

We honor Black individuals who helped shape our country’s history. We also want to recognize our Black members and employees. We are thankful for your contributions and the impact that you make every day.  

From all of us at TwinStar, we hope you join us in observing Black History Month.