Harvard Office for Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging states that a “history month is dedicated to recognizing, celebrating, and educating people about the history, culture, and contributions of a specific group of people.” The months also aim to raise awareness about historical injustices and promote inclusion.
Black History Month was the first of many history months introduced in 1926 by historian Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History. The timing of the history month in February was due to the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. Woodson’s goal for Black History Month was to educate the public about the important contributions of Black Americans, even though he was enduring racism and segregation at the time. In 1976, President Gerald Ford officially recognized February as Black History Month.
Due to the accomplishment of Black History Month, other diverse groups soon followed. Women’s History Month began as “Women’s History Week” on March 7, 1982. However, in 1987, due to many petitions for more recognition, March became known as Women’s History Month.
The main purpose of these historical events was to help guide communities into other perspectives and lives.
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage originally took place for a week during May in 1978; however, in 1992 it was given the entirety of May. The month of May was chosen as it was the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants to the U.S. in 1843 as well as the completion of the transcontinental railroad in 1869, built by Chinese laborers.
Pride Month was dedicated to honoring the Stonewall Riots of June 1969, which was a beneficial moment for the LGBTQ+ rights movement. It was officially recognized by President Bill Clinton in 1999.
Hispanic Heritage Month started as Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968. With the help of President Lyndon B. Johnson, it was later expanded to include a full month in 1988 through President Ronald Reagan. Beginning on September 15 in honor of the independence days of several Latin American countries, and ending on October 15.
Native American Heritage Month was originally created in 1915 by the Congress of the American Indian Association. After many petitions and efforts that led to more recognition, President George H.W. Bush officially declared November as Native American Heritage Month in 1990. The month was to acknowledge the contributions of Indigenous peoples in the U.S. such as the implementation of corn, canoeing, and log cabins.
