Today marks the beginning of Black History Month, which was officially recognized in 1976 by President Gerald Ford. This year’s theme is “Black Family: Representation, Identity, and Diversity.” The theme encourages people to explore the African diaspora, and the spread of Black Families across the United States.
In a 2016 speech, President Barack Obama said, “Black History Month shouldn’t be treated as though it is somehow separate from our collective American history, or somehow just boiled down to a compilation of greatest hits from the March on Washington, or from some of our sports heroes.”
He went on to say, “It’s about the lived, shared experience of all African Americans, high and low, famous and obscure, and how those experiences have shaped and challenged and ultimately strengthened America. It’s about taking an unvarnished look at the past so we can create a better future. It’s a reminder of where we as a country have been so that we know where we need to go.”
Local families can celebrate Black History Month by browsing Detroit’s Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History’s gallery on their newly launched app. The app includes a virtual tour of some of the museum’s exhibits.
The museum is currently open to the public with timed-entry ticketing Thursday – Saturday from 9 AM – 4 PM and Sundays from noon – 5 PM.
Learn more about the digital app <HERE> and visiting the museum in person <HERE> .
Reporting for WGRT – Jessie Wiegand
