How African American History Sparks an Exciting Revolution

This month, at YWCA South Florida, we're highlighting the remarkable legacy and global impact of African Americans. It is crucial to recognize their influence transcending borders and changing history.

 How did the Black History Month celebration start?The story of how the impact, significance, and enduring legacy of African Americans became widely recognized and appreciated is in large part through one man's dedication. Carter G. Woodson, along with other visionaries, established the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) and introduced The Journal of African American History. This platform provided a space for researchers to highlight the extraordinary accomplishments of African American individuals. As the association grew, other organizations, universities, and allies joined the cause. In 1926, Woodson led the inaugural adherence of African American history, initially celebrated during the second week of February to match the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. However, it was not until 1976 that President Gerald R. Ford extended the celebration to encompass the entire month, marking a significant milestone in recognizing African American heritage.How can you commemorate African American History Month?To commemorate one of the many influential African American women, remember the remarkable Fannie Lou Hamer, a compassionate and dedicated activist best known for her tireless efforts to secure voting rights for African Americans. Despite facing violence and arrest, she fearlessly fought against racial segregation and discrimination, paving the way for the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Hamer's bravery and resilience continue to inspire activists working for racial and social justice today, reminding us of the profound impact of grassroots organizing and the ability of ordinary individuals to create meaningful change in society.Also, we can commemorate by remembering Black art as the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) does during this month's celebration of the history of African Americans, casting a national spotlight on the arts with an emphasis on both the past and future. 

In honor of #BlackHistoryMonth, AIR's BLAAC (Black, Latino, African American, African, and Caribbean) Diaspora Network developed a series of trivia questions highlighting significant events, people, and achievements in Black history.Test your knowledge with us all month long. pic.twitter.com/XxbNWAbjk4

— American Institutes for Research (@AIRInforms) February 13, 2024

Black InspirationThink about your favorite aspect of Black culture. There are many options. For example, some people may remember the infectious rhythms of an African drum or the joy of dancing and singing along to an African song that had influenced African American music. African American artists have left an indelible mark on music, transforming genres like jazz, blues, hip-hop, pop, and reggae and influencing cultures worldwide. Consider the soothing vibes of music; it can transport us to a place of relaxation or ignite our creativity or inspire other rhythms.African American leaders have made a big impact worldwide, making cultures more vibrant and exciting. Legendary talents like Louis Armstrong, Aretha Franklin, and Miles Davis have reshaped jazz and soul. They are renowned for creating musical milestones that have left an enduring impact on people's minds. Michael Jackson's moonwalks and B.B. King's soulful blues have added unforgettable flavors. Prince challenged norms with his flamboyant style, while Ella Fitzgerald's scat singing soared to jazz heaven. Together, they have crafted an auditory legacy that continues to inspire generations with their beats, melodies, and messages of love and unity.However, African American history and inspiration transcends music and entertainment. Writers like Maya Angelou, Toni Morrison, and James Baldwin have produced literary masterpieces that resonate universally, addressing themes of identity, race, and the human experience, sparking a global revolution.In science, notable African American women like Dr. Mae Jemison, the first African American woman in space, and Dr. Patricia Bath, a leader in eye medicine, have made big impacts. Dr. Jemison's space trip in 1992 inspired many to choose science careers, and Dr. Bath, through her work helping people with cataracts, motivated many women and minorities to work in science and medicine. Their success shows what's possible and motivates others to achieve in their diverse fields.Take ActionTo champion Black History Month and inspire action, consider taking at least one of the following steps:

1. Social Media Engagement: Get creative with hashtags like #BlackHistoryMonth and #CelebrateBlackExcellence. Encourage your friends to share posts and anecdotes highlighting the impact of African Americans in history. You might even initiate a challenge prompting them to share a photo or brief sentence on African American influence or share pictures from their museum visits honoring the contributions of African Americans and African descendants.
2. Follow to learn more about local Black history @BlackMiamiDade 
3. Visit and learn from:
   • Jazz Festival: https://www.miamiandbeaches.com/event/melton-mustafa-jazz-festival/18297 
   • https://www.miamiandbeaches.com/things-to-do/history-and-heritage/celebrate-black-history-month  
   • Broward is home to one of the country’s only African American Research Libraries: https://www.broward.org/Library/Pages/BranchDetails.aspx?branchInfo=1 
   • 28 days of black history: Archives — 28 Days of Black History 
   • Educational Initiatives: Invite speakers, artists, dancers, and historians to offer unique insights, talents, and perspectives.

This month, the YWCA commemorates the Black legacy and history and its important legacy. One of the celebrations will be organizing an African Dance cultural event in local schools. It's an opportunity for students to immerse themselves in the vibrant rhythms of Black music, and its influence on culture, learn some new moves, and share the joy of cultural expression.By Andrea Clavijo