Black History Month is a continuance of an annual observance originated in the United States by legendary historian Carter G. Woodson and other historical African Americans in 1915. Black History Month—commonly known as African American History Month or African American Heritage Month—has been officially recognized by every U.S. president since it was officially designated in 1976. However, it has also received official recognition from governments in other countries, including Canada, and more recently has been observed in Ireland and the United Kingdom.

For students at a historically Black college or university (HBCU), 2022 continues to be a time of trials and triumphs. This includes bomb threats at 17 HBCUs within the last two months, which the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Forces are investigating. Thankfully, there have been no explosives found, and all impacted campuses are continuing their education and training of today’s scholars into tomorrow’s leaders. As the Vice President of Research & Innovation at Prairie View A&M, an institution well-known for triumphs in equity and equality, I am proud to recognize, honor, and celebrate the accomplishments of all HBCU graduates…not just this month, but every day.

The History of Black History Month

Dr. Woodson, known as the “father of Black history,” created the first iteration of Black History Month in February 1926. He chose February for a week-long observance because it coincides with the birthdates of former U.S. President Abraham Lincoln and social reformer Frederick Douglass. Both men played a significant role in helping to end slavery.

The renowned historian helped establish the field of African American studies, and his organization, the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History, aimed to encourage “people of all ethnic and social backgrounds to discuss the Black experience.” His organization was later renamed the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASAALH) and is currently the oldest historical society established for the promotion of African American history.

This Year’s Theme

Every year, a theme is chosen by the ASAALH. This year’s theme, “Black Health and Wellness,” focuses on the importance of Black Health and Wellness. This includes acknowledging the legacy of Black scholars, as well others in alternative wellness practitioners, such as birth workers, doulas, midwives, naturopaths, herbalists, etc. There will be a host of events across the nation to also examine how healthcare has often underserved the Black community.

As a research advocate, I support this year’s theme: “Black Health and Wellness.” PVAMU’s College of Nursing (CON) continues to be one of those institutions to address health care disparities in underserved communities and to graduate educated well-skilled licensed nurses, nurse practitioners, administrators, educators, and doctoral-earning nurse scholars. This year the PVAMU’s CON also celebrates the 100th anniversary of the first graduates of its nursing program.

Another factor of wellness is also our emotional and mental health. The realities of the COVID-19 pandemic, the racial unrest of 2020, and the ongoing inequalities and attacks on communities of color have increased the awareness of the need for and importance of counseling and therapy. Many faith leaders, celebrities, and star athletes are joining forces with Black doctors, nurses, therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists in removing the stigma of needed counseling. Therefore, this year’s theme is timely and necessary.

Join me in celebrating the legacy of the outstanding contributions of African Americans. Join me in supporting the education and development of tomorrow’s leaders today. They, too, can make Black History–and world history–as they embrace their culture, history, and innate power to excel in a world of evolution and constant change.

Magesh Rajan, Ph.D., P.E., MBA, is vice president of the Division of Research & Innovation at Prairie View A&M University.