Black History Month, observed every February in the United States, is a time to honor the significant contributions and rich history of African Americans.ts origins date back to 1926 when historian Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History established "Negro History Week." They selected the second week of February to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, both pivotal figures in the fight against slavery. Over the decades, this week-long observance evolved, and in 1976, during the nation's bicentennial, it expanded into Black History Month, receiving official recognition from President Gerald Ford.
Each year, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) designates a theme to highlight specific aspects of Black history and culture.or 2025, the theme is "African Americans and Labor." This theme delves into the ways that work—encompassing both free and forced labor, skilled and unskilled roles, as well as vocational and voluntary efforts—has intersected with the experiences of Black individuals. Focusing on "African Americans and Labor," Black History Month 2025 aims to shed light on the profound contributions of Black workers throughout history, emphasizing their pivotal role in shaping the social, economic, and cultural landscape of the United States and beyond.
At WWPS, teachers decorate hallway doors or designated areas to highlight individuals or contributions that African Americans have contributed to the advancement of our country.