Black History Month's 100th anniversary sparks new books and fierce debates
Black History Month marks its 100th anniversary this year, with celebrations moving forward despite recent political challenges. Advocates and educators are rolling out new books, events, and curricula to engage young people in a fuller telling of America's past. The push comes as debates over Black history education intensify across the country.
The past year has been difficult for those teaching Black history in the US. The Trump administration dismantled exhibits on slavery at national parks, including one in Philadelphia. President Donald Trump also claimed that some lessons on African American history aim to indoctrinate people into hating the country. Advocates describe these actions and their broader impact as unprecedented and alarming.
Despite the tensions, new projects are launching to honour Black history. On February 10, a graphic novel titled First Freedom: The Story of Opal Lee and Juneteenth will be released. It tells the story of Opal Lee, known as the 'Grandmother of Juneteenth,' and encourages young readers to follow her mantra: 'make yourself a committee of one' to drive change. Juneteenth itself has grown from local observances in 1980 to a federal holiday in 2021, with widespread recognition by 2026, including stock market closures and corporate acknowledgements.
Meanwhile, Professor Jarvis Givens is releasing I'll Make Me a World: The 100-Year Journey of Black History Month, a book that explores key themes and corrects common misconceptions. Civil rights groups, artists, and scholars are also hosting lectures, teach-ins, and book launches to reach younger audiences. Campaign Zero and Afro Charities have partnered with leading Black scholars to create a free Black History Month curriculum, expanding access to educational materials.
The 100th anniversary of Black History Month arrives at a time of both resistance and renewed effort. New books, curricula, and public events aim to deepen understanding of Black history among young people. Organisers continue to push for broader recognition despite ongoing political disputes.
