Fleetwood Area Public Library

Black History Month, also known as African American History Month, grew from Negro
History Week, which Carter G. Woodson initiated in 1925. The weeklong event was
extremely popular and supported, and in 1976 Gerald Ford recognized the whole month
of February as one in which the nation would honor the history of Black Americans.

As Morgan Freeman said, “Black history is American history.” During this month, let’s
spend time recognizing the contributions that Black Americans have made to our nation.
Have you read anything by a Black author recently? Listened to music performed by a
Black entertainer? Investigated and learned more about Black inventors, politicians,
activists, artists?
This month, try to expand your horizons beyond the familiar and reach for something
new. As always, we’ll be here for suggestions and resources!

Click HERE for some available on Overdrive!
 

Cool EVENTS to check out online:

PBS Books, in partnership with ASALH, will host a virtual conversation with trailblazer Dr. Mae Jemison on Wednesday, February 3 at 5pm ET | 2pm PT on Facebook Live, Youtube (PBS Books and ASALH), and on its website.

During the interview, Dr. Mae will discuss her newly re-released memoir “Finding Where the Wind Goes.”  You’ll hear about her various and diverse experiences—all which make her a trailblazer. This program is perfect complement to our Trailblazing Women Series offered during the 100 year celebration of the ratification of the 19th Amendment, and our Celebration of African American Life and History during Black History Month.

Dr. Mae Jemison, the world’s first woman of color in space, is truly a modern hero with a remarkable, inspiring story to tell. We look forward to sharing her story with the young (ages 8 and up) and the young at heart.  Don’t miss it!

Additional Resources
Association for the Study of African American Life and History, Origins of Black History
Month: https://asalh.org/about-us/origins-of-black-history-month/
About African American History Month: https://africanamericanhistorymonth.gov/about/