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To the editor,

Do you know when Black history started?

Harvard-trained historian Carter G. Woodson had a bold, new idea in 1926 he called Negro History Week. He was also considered to be the “Father of Black History” and wanted to celebrate people who many others in this country thought had no place in history. Woodson understood that the efforts of African Americans “were overlooked, ignored, and even suppressed by the writers of history textbooks and the teachers who use them.”

After a while, it developed into Black History Month. The heritage that he left lives on by accrediting and teaching others about the accomplishments of Black Americans.

African Americans have continued to go through serious difficulty trying to join recognized American culture. The unmistakable character is fixed from the past of Afro-Americans. Our culture is different and has a tremendous impact on American and international culture.

Even though being held in captivity limited the means for Africans to use their unique traditions, several customs, virtues and principles held up, and bit by bit have changed and/or fused with other cultures. After being freed, special Afro-American customs have been constantly growing, as extraordinary heritage or revolutionary concepts in creativity, music, faith, food and other areas. No matter what, writers, artists and activists have intervened to repair the spirit and equality of a minority.

From early on in captivity, ending in the 20th century, African American art was able to make a dynamic contribution to the art of the United States. In the 1920s, creators like Aaron Douglas (painter), Augusta Savage (sculptor), Faith Ringgold (painter, writer, mixed media sculptor, performance artist, narrative quilts) and Renee Cox (printmaking, photography) became popular for their art. While experiencing the Great Depression, a larger space began to open for them and more artists under the WPA (Work Progress Administration). The Black Arts Movement of the 60s and 70s was a new age of revived excitement in African American art.

“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.” — Harriet Tubman

 

Bree Trumble

Smithfield