VIRGINIA: Where it all began: Virginia and the Black History Movement
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) – This year marks a major milestone that helped shape how the United States of America tells its story.
It was 100 years ago when Black History Month first began being officially recognized.
To celebrate the centennial anniversary, this year’s theme is: A Century of Black History Commemorations.
When you hear, “Virginia is the home of black history,” it’s not just symbolic; it’s historically accurate.
Dr. Carter G. Woodson, a Virginia native, launched what was then called ‘Negro History Week’ in 1926. Dr. Woodson’s goal was to make sure black achievements were studied, celebrated, and preserved.
By 1976, it was recognized nationally by President Gerald Ford, with Congress later officially designating February as Black History Month.
“It’s a journey of people. It’s a journey of culture. It’s a journey of history — and it’s a journey of understanding yourself. So that is really what the embodiment of 100 years of Black history truly means,” Shakia Gullette Warren, Executive Director at the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia, said.
That journey continues to evolve, right here in Virginia.
“Throughout the years, we have seen different movements take place — post-Reconstruction, the Civil Rights Movement, the Resistance Movement, and Black Lives Matter,” Warren said.
From the earliest days of enslavement to the fight for Civil Rights, to movements still unfolding today, Warren says Virginia has stood at the center of America’s Black American History.
“We are living history. Each and every one of us embodies our ancestors in some different type of way. History is never-ending,” she said.
Black History Month matters, as a call to remember, reflect and recognize.
At the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia, the mission is clear: Black History is American History.
“We make sure that everyone who comes in through these doors understands that Black history is a part of the larger narrative of American history — so that you can better understand yourself,” Warren said.
The work of Dr. Woodson started a century ago, the work of education, truth, and visibility continues beyond the month on the calendar.
As American celebrates 250 years, the centennial reminds us that Black History is not a separate story – it’s a part of America’s story.
If you want to learn more about upcoming events or plan a trip to the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia, click here.
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