Every February, the United States celebrates Black History Month, a tradition upheld since 1976 when President Gerald Ford first issued a proclamation recognizing the observance. This year, the theme, "African Americans and Labor," highlights the significant contributions of Black Americans in shaping the nation's workforce. Established by Carter G. Woodson, often dubbed the father of Black History, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) is at the forefront of this celebration. However, recent policy shifts pose challenges to how Black History Month is observed, especially within federal agencies.
The Department of Defense (DoD) recently took a controversial step by issuing a memo titled "Identity Months Dead at DoD," prohibiting staff from using official resources to host events related to cultural awareness months. New Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth issued this directive on January 31, aligning with a series of executive orders from President Donald Trump that ended support for diversity and inclusion initiatives.
"Throughout our history, black Americans have been among our country's most consequential leaders, shaping the cultural and political destiny of our Nation in profound ways" – President Donald Trump
Despite these changes, President Trump initially expressed gratitude towards Black Americans for their contributions to the nation.
"This National Black History Month, as America prepares to enter a historic Golden Age, I want to extend my tremendous gratitude to black Americans for all they have done to bring us to this moment, and for the many future contributions they will make as we advance into a future of limitless possibility under my Administration" – President Donald Trump
These developments have led to concerns among advocates and organizations dedicated to promoting Black history. Federal agencies such as the Department of Justice have traditionally celebrated Black History Month with presentations and keynote speakers. Charles Hicks, affectionately known as "Mr. Black History" in Washington, D.C., recalls attending such an event in 2016 featuring his longtime friend, the late Dorie Ladner, a veteran of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC).
"People need to stick with Black history, not just have it proclaimed, but actually sit with it, discuss it and think about its relevance and its importance today" – Karsonya Wise Whitehead
Karsonya Wise Whitehead emphasizes the need for active engagement with Black history, not merely superficial recognition. She is among those stepping into the gap left by reduced federal support.
"We are stepping in to that gap" – Karsonya Wise Whitehead
ASALH has responded to these challenges by amplifying its advocacy efforts. The organization is leveraging social media and its website to promote events hosted by other organizations celebrating Black History Month. This proactive approach seeks to ensure that the significance of Black history remains at the forefront.
"You don't wait to be celebrated. We celebrate ourselves" – Karsonya Wise Whitehead
Despite federal agencies scaling back their diversity initiatives, companies such as Target have also begun aligning with the government's stance, reducing their efforts in promoting diversity. This trend has sparked criticism and prompted calls for continued recognition of Black history's importance.
"So many places are scrubbing language and telling people to be careful" – Deborah Menkart
Deborah Menkart's observation underscores a broader trend of cautious language surrounding discussions of diversity and inclusion. However, advocates like Whitehead remain undeterred.
"We stand up and we fight back" – Karsonya Wise Whitehead
A notable incident highlighting these challenges occurred when the U.S. Air Force initially decided to exclude the Tuskegee Airmen from course instructions. This decision was later reversed after protests, demonstrating the power of advocacy in preserving historical narratives.
ASALH's theme for this year, focusing on African Americans and Labor, resonates strongly given these circumstances. It serves as a reminder of the pivotal role Black Americans have played in shaping the nation's workforce—an aspect that deserves recognition and celebration.
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