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When is Black History Month 2021? What is it? When did it start?


On October 5, 2020, at Unit London Gallery, Collins Obijiaku's art will be on show during the "The Medium Is The Message" exhibition. Credit: Getty

Black History Month began in the United States in 1926, when American historian Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History.


It has expanded and grown over time to become a worldwide event.


The event has now obtained official recognition in the United States, Canada, Ireland, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom, and is now known as "Black History Month."


While honoring the experiences and contributions of Black Britons in the UK, Black History Month helps put present life and the country's history into context.


When is Black History month?


Despite the fact that Black History Month is honored in the United States from February 1 to March 1, it is observed in the United Kingdom later in the year. In actuality, Black History Month in the United Kingdom runs from October 1 to October 31.


Various events, such as art exhibitions honoring black artists and special university lectures, are planned at this time.


The majority of schools have yet to incorporate Black History Month into their curriculum, and the vast majority will continue to teach traditional history.


For years, activists have pushed for the inclusion of black history in the national curriculum.


The British version of Black History Month was initially commemorated in October 1987, and the dates have been consistent since then.


The year 1987 also commemorated the 150th anniversary of Caribbean liberation, the centennial of Jamaican campaigner Marcus Garvey's birth, and the 25th anniversary of the Organization of African Unity.


What is the origin of Black History Month?


The first observation was organized under the direction of Ghanaian-born analyst Akyaaba Addai-Sebo. He worked for the Greater London Council as a special projects coordinator.


Dr. Maulana Karenga, an American activist, was called to County Hall to commemorate the accomplishments of Black people throughout history when it was first commemorated in London in the late 1980s.


As a result, Akyaaba devised a strategy to recognize African, Asian, and Caribbean contributions to the UK's economic, cultural, and political life.


More recently, Black History Month has been observed as an opportunity to exchange and promote knowledge about the significance of black ancestry and culture throughout the United States.


“This year's Black History Month in October is more significant than ever,” the Black History Month UK organization declared on its website.


“Black History Month is more than just a month to honor the achievements and contributions of Black people in the United Kingdom and around the world.


“It's also a time to keep fighting racism, reclaiming Black history, and ensuring Black history is represented and celebrated throughout the year.


“As 2020 demonstrated, and as 2021 will demonstrate, Black history is being made every day, in a variety of ways.


“Black History Month UK magazine is seeking Black individuals across the UK to submit their tales and experiences to cast a spotlight on Black history in the making.”

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