Black History Month at Galveston College

Black History Month is an annual celebration of the achievements of African Americans and a time to recognize their central role in U.S. history. Also known as African American History Month, the celebration grew out of Negro History Week, founded by historian Dr. Carter G. Woodson and other prominent African Americans.

President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month in 1976, and since then, every U.S. president has designated February as a time to honor the impact of Black Americans on our nation’s story. Other countries, including Canada and the United Kingdom, also devote a month to celebrating Black history and culture.

February is a time to celebrate the history, culture, and achievements of African Americans. Galveston College Library proudly joins this observance by honoring the legacy of resilience, creativity, and leadership that continues to shape our nation and community.

2025 Theme: “African Americans and Labor”

The 2025 Black History Month theme, “African Americans and Labor,” honors the central role of Black workers in building and shaping America’s economy, culture, and communities. From enslavement and sharecropping to union leadership and entrepreneurship, African Americans’ labor has been a source of both struggle and strength. This year marks 100 years since A. Philip Randolph founded the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, the first Black labor union chartered under the American Federation of Labor, a milestone that continues to inspire movements for economic and social justice today.  For additional details and resources, visit the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) to read more about the 2025 theme, “African Americans and Labor.”

History Channel: History Shorts

Explore History Shorts, a collection of quick, engaging videos from the History Channel that spotlight key moments, people, and stories in African American history. These brief segments bring historical events to life, making them easy to watch and share while offering meaningful insight into the achievements and impact of Black Americans. 

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