Since 1976, February has been noted at Black History Month.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, to commemorate and celebrate the contributions to the country made by people of African descent, American historian Carter G. Woodson established Black History Week. The first celebration occurred Feb. 12, 1926. For many years, the second week of February was set aside for the celebration to coincide with the birthdays of abolitionist/editor Fredrick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln. In 1976, as part of the nation’s bicentennial, the week was expanded into a month.

By that time, the week had evolved into a month at several college campuses. President Gerald R. Ford officially recognized it in ’76, calling on the public to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history,” according to the History Channel’s website.

Schools have since adopted teaching curriculum to correspond with the celebration.

The 2012 theme pays tribute to the ways in which black women have shaped the U.S. and its history. The theme will segue nicely into March — Women’s History Month.

Black History Month is celebrated worldwide now. Canada also celebrates in February, while the UK celebrates Black History Month in October.

There is Women’s History Month and Hispanic History Month — in fact, there are several designations for all 12 months — but students should be offered information about all ethnic and other special heritages that make up the fabric of the United States throughout their study of American history.

The achievements and contributions to the country by African Americans cannot be shoehorned into one short month of teaching or discussion.

Only through discussion, knowledge and discourse can all Americans celebrate all their achievements and contributions on a continual basis.

There will be ample opportunities during February to learn more about African American history and contributions made to the U.S. on television and in the news. Information is the key to understanding.

— Today’s News-Herald