Why Black History Month Matters (Plus a Celebration of Black Male Beauty) - NubianNewYorkers - FEB MAN-CANDY 2026

 

Black History Month in the United States springs from a powerful seed planted in 1926, when historian Carter G. Woodson launched “Negro History Week” in February to shine a bright light on Black stories long pushed into the shadows. 

He chose the week that included the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, honoring two towering figures in the struggle against slavery and for freedom. As the years rolled on and the Civil Rights Movement swelled, that week grew in spirit and influence until, in 1976, the nation officially expanded it into Black History Month, with President Gerald Ford urging Americans to honor the “too-often neglected accomplishments” of Black Americans in every area of life. 

 

Today, every February, the country pauses—not in silence, but in a joyful, determined chorus—to remember, to teach, and to celebrate.

The purpose of Black History Month is like a radiant lantern, lifting up the achievements, struggles, and dreams of African Americans so they can no longer be ignored or erased. 

 It helps African Americans by affirming identity, honoring ancestors, and reminding young people that they stand in a long line of inventors, artists, organizers, and leaders whose brilliance helped shape the United States. 

It helps all minorities by expanding the story of America to include many voices, challenging stereotypes, and opening hearts to shared struggles for dignity, justice, and full belonging. And it strengthens the nation itself by teaching a more honest history, inspiring unity rooted in truth, and calling every generation to keep working toward freedom and equal opportunity for all.

 

 

 

Black History Month isn’t canceled—ever.
Rock your dashikis, kente, and African prints all February.
They can try to erase us, but they can’t erase this drip.
Wear what you’ve got or grab MORE here.

 

 Wear what you own or add more armor to your wardrobe.. 

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Thank you for taking the time to read this Black History post and enjoy the photos. 

 

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