As February marks the beginning of Black History Month, it serves as a time to honor and reflect on the invaluable contributions of African Americans throughout history. Dr. Carter G. Woodson, known as the father of Black History Month,

Reflecting on Black History Month, Cardinal Wilton Gregory recalled how young people in the Shaw neighborhood of Washington, D.C., would often climb on the bronze statue of Carter G. Woodson, rub his head,

Neighbors held gatherings large and small, some filled with song, for others reflection on the last weekend of February.

Why is Black History Month in February? The commemoration of important Black Americans and events happens largely during the shortest month of the year.

What is the work we’re willing to do? The Fast Company Impact Council is a private membership community of influential leaders, experts, executives, and entrepreneurs who share their insights with our audience.

Mwatabu Okantah was at Kent State when Black History Month was first celebrated. He reflects on the groundwork laid and why it still matters.

Black History Month was recognized nationally in 1976, when President Gerald Ford designated the month as a time for the public to honor the contributions of Black Americans, according to the museum. The month has since inspired other groups and an appreciation of multicultural backgrounds.

This year’s Black History Month theme is “African Americans and Labor,” focusing on the ways work impacts “the collective experiences of Black people,” according to the Association for the Study of African American Life and History,

For four decades, the USA has officially celebrated Black History Month, but efforts to honor African American history in February go back a century.