Black History Month

Happy Black History Month

Happy February 1st, as we hit the coldest month of the year, we also head into Black History Month. This month celebrates the accomplishments and history of African Americans and their contributions to the history of the United States.

How do they decide?

As I was thinking of what to write today, it made me wonder how they decide which month to celebrate what cause and I thought of Hispanic Heritage Month.

History of Hispanic Heritage Month

If you do not know, Hispanic Heritage Month is oddly not in just one month. Its spread between September & October (Sept 15 – Oct 15th). Why you ask? They chose these dates because of the national independence days that happen throughout Latin America starting with five countries on the 15th, followed by three more in the following 5 days.

In 1968, it started as Hispanic Heritage Week sponsored by Edward Roybal (Los Angeles politician) and signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson. Twenty years later, it was expanded to 30 days, implemented by President Regan.

This blog/podcast is not only to share Hispanic/Latino contributions to American Society but it is also my journey to learn more about our history in this great country. If you think of all that was going on in the 1960’s in America to see the passing of a whole week dedicated to us is a major accomplishment.

Black History Month

Black History Month originated as “Negro History Week” in 1926 and wasn’t addressed by the U.S. President until the 1970’s. That is 50 years that it took to be recognized by our head of government. African Americans have come a long way to working towards equal rights and Latinos have been right behind them supporting them along the way but it also shows we have made great strides in a shorter time.

We share many similarities with the African American population that we are often marginalized and underrepresented in positions of power. Although Latinos have had many strides too because we come in so many shades of skin-color. I also feel that because of this natural distinction they have had to work harder fighting for their rights and to be recognized. In 1968, President Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act into law. This prohibited the refusal to sell or rent a dwelling to any person because of their race, color, religion or national origin. It was monumental because it showed the federal government making strides to fair housing acts. Although it was a start, it still is in the works to making it a perfect system.

Same struggle united as one.

I would like to think if it was not for the civil rights movement and the actions taken by our African American cousins we, as Latinos, would not be in the same position as we are today. We should take a stand, march in equality, and take a moment to support and celebrate Black History Month, as it is part of our identity and history in the United States.