Celebrating Black History Month
Lynn University Students Express Views on African American History
By Erna Delice, Staff Writer
During the month of February, Lynn students expressed their feelings about Black History Month. Throughout this special duration, many celebrate and teach
the contributions made by the African American community in the United States.
Officially recognized by President Gerald Ford in 1976, February was chosen to honor the accomplishments of Black Americans as it contains the birthdays of the two important civil rights figures, 16th President Abraham Lincoln and abolitionist Frederick Douglass.
“Black history is important to me because my culture’s hardships can’t be undermined,” said Alex Hugie, a freshman cybersecurity major.
The establishment of Black History Month was in no small part due to the efforts of Carter G. Woodson, an American Historian, Author, and Journalist who founded the Association for the Study of African American Life and History. The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People describes Woodson as “A scholar whose dedication to celebrating the historic contributions of Black people led to the establishment of Black History Month, marked every February since 1976.”
Some other figures who have helped shape history in America include activist Rosa Parks, who sat on a Cleveland Avenue bus and refused to give up her seat to a White man, for which she was charged with disorderly conduct.
“Black History Month holds immense significance for me,” said Omar Davis, a freshman majoring in marketing. “It’s a moment to reflect on the struggles, resilience and triumphs of the black community, both past and present.”
In honor of the month, Lynn’s Black Student Union, Center for Student Involvement and Caribbean Student United hosted a block party at Christine’s Park on Feb. 8, which consisted of music, food, games, art and more.
