2021 Gumbo final - Book - Page 84
84
black historymonth
F
ebruary is Black History Month. This month is an
annual celebration of achievements by African
Americans and a time for recognizing their central
role in U.S. history.
Although Harvard historian Carter G. Woodson and the
Association for the Study of Negro Life and History dedicated
the second week of February as “Negro History Week,” it
wasn’t until 1976 that President Gerald Ford recognized the
month of February as Black History Month.
There are many ways in which organizations on LSU’s
campus are getting involved. Student Government’s
department of Diversity, co-directed by Devin Scott and Gabe
Watkins, put together 28 Days of Excellence and highlighted
28 individuals who made history by contributing to America.
LSU NAACP also had many events they put together such
as the Image Awards and Open Mic nights. LSU Ambassadors
did Instagram stories that are striving to educate about
black history and spread awareness. Sigma Lambda Gamma,
LSU’s first multicultural sorority, is also posting stories via
Instagram each week of a historical figure in black history
with highlights about them.
Tori Vaughn, president of Sigma Lambda Gamma,
said “When I think of black history, it’s a way to honor
and celebrate past and present historical figures that
have helped to make a difference in the African American
community.”
Javin D. Bowman, a junior at LSU running for student body
president, said that this month for him is when black history
is appreciated.
“Black History serves as a reminder of black people
that have fought for equality and to be recognized for our
contributions to this nation,” Bowman said.
Michelle Obama is one of many influential Black
individuals in history and Vaughn is most inspired by her.
“Her being the first African American first lady of the
United States was just so amazing to me.” Vaughn said.
Obama was the founding executive director of the Chicago
chapter of Public Allies, which is an American nonprofit
organization that helps young adults, from all backgrounds,
levels of education and professional experiences to develop
skills for future careers in the public sector. In 2015, she
launched Let Girls Learn, which is a U.S. government-wide
initiative to help girls around the world go to school and stay
in school.
“Celebrating Black History Month could be as simple as
supporting your black friends, supporting black business
owners, writers, dancers, teachers, etc.,” Bowman said. “You
can celebrate black history by supporting those who are
making black history.”
Vaughn added, “Take the time to learn about other
people’s background, what they have been through, and just
understanding that not everyone’s situation is the same.”
While Black History Month only lasts one month, the
celebration and appreciation for the role Black people have
played in America’s history should continue year-round. By
doing this, it helps to gain knowledge and appreciation for
the lives and milestones of African Americans. It may be a
short period of time, but it is an everlasting celebration of
black lives in history.