Black History Month is observed every February in the United States. Black History Month was established in 1926. Although there is an international aspect to Black History month, it is mainly an American holiday. In 1926, Dr. Carter Godwin Woodson and other African American and white scholars launched "Negro History Week" so that Americans could reflect on the history and contributions of African Americans. In the 1970s, the celebration of African American history was expanded to include the entire month of February.
A few activities are listed below:
Dove TP Roll Craft
This craft was originally requested by "Wendy" for Martin Luther King week. You could also use it for Easter, Biblical studies or no particular reason at all.
Materials you will need for the dove are a tp roll, printer, glue, scissors, something to colour with and a piece of paper.
Print out the template of choice.
Colour the pieces as appropriate and cut them out.
Glue the large rectangular piece around the toilet paper tube.
Glue the wings and tail onto the back of the tp roll.
Glue the head onto the front of the tp roll.
Fold the feet and glue the tabs to the inside of the tube.
Handprint - Dove (Unity) Wreath
This wreath symbolizes cultural unity. You can adjust the handprint colors for different occasions (for example, you may wish to use handprints in different shades of brown for Black History Month)
Holidays
The state of Texas made June tenth an official holiday on Jan. 1, 1980, and became the first to grant it government recognition. Several states have since issued proclamations recognizing the holiday, but the Lone Star State remains alone in granting it full state holiday status, a day when government employees have the day off.
Nonetheless, supporters and celebrants of June tenth continue to grow in number and in diversity; today, June tenth is promoted not only as a commemoration of African-American freedom, but as an example and encouragement of self-development and respect for all cultures.
Martin Luther King Day
Martin Luther King Day is a federal holiday observed on the third Monday in January. In 2010, it falls on King's birthday, Jan. 18Congress passed the holiday legislation in 1983, which was then signed into law by President Ronald Reagan. A compromise moving the holiday from Jan. 15, King's birthday, which was considered too close to Christmas and New Year's, to the third Monday in January helped overcome opposition to the law.
Trip idea
5100 Crenshaw Boulevard, Los Angeles, California
Walk the length of this colorful mural, which spans a full city block in Los Angeles. This artistic colossus is a testament to African-American achievement and unity. The artwork was started over 30 years ago by a man named Tony Riddle, who began scribbling poetry on the side of the wall. His work inspired other artists to express their African pride by painting and writing all along the face of the wall. Your kids will marvel at the colors and stories, with each section revealing a portion of African-American history.
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