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.
