Historian Carter G. Woodson chose the second week in February to celebrate Black History Week back in 1926.

 The dates coincided with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass.

In 1976, President Gerald Ford extended it to Black History Month, paying tribute to generations of black Americans.

San Diego City College celebrates throughout the month of February with events ranging from weekly Black Film Fridays to visits from activist artists and speakers.

“It is about celebrating the past, present and future,” said Mariah Jameson, a City College student and president of UMOJA Club. “It’s about learning where we came from and where we want to go. It’s a celebration. It’s a party. It’s a time to be proud to be black.”

The evolution of art and activism is this year’s theme for Black History Month, according to Jameson.  

“We wanted to choose some films that would have great discussions afterwards,” Jameson said. “A lot of them are problematic and circulates around the black community and problems in the black community or even around in society.”

Jameson encourages students to commemorate Black History Month all year long through education.

“Black history ties into everyone’s history,” she said. “It’s not just about being black or celebrating being black. It’s about celebrating the brotherhoods that are connected to it. It’s important because City College is very diverse.”

UPCOMING EVENTS

Black Film Friday: “School Daze”
Feb. 22, 6-8 p.m. in MS-162
The film is about the clash between light- and dark-skinned African-American students in a fraternity.

TED Talk Screening: The Danger of Single Story
Feb 26, 2-3:30 p.m. in AH-200-A
Chimamanda Adichie talks about stereotypes and the importance of being open-minded.

Uyen Pham contributed to this report.