The Purpose of Black History Month
The celebration of Black History Month (BHM) began in 1915, half a century after the Thirteenth Amendment abolished slavery in the United States. Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing the central role of blacks in U.S. history.
Since 1976, every U.S. president has officially designated the month of February as Black History Month. Other countries around the world, including Canada and the United Kingdom, also devote a month to celebrating black history.
Berkeley Lab’s African American Employee Resource Group (AAERG) will honor Black History Month with various activities, including:
- February 11, 12 noon – Women Scientists & Engineers Council Speaker Series: Jackie Scoggins
- February 14 – Black History Month trivia contest
- February 19, 12 noon – Movie screening
- February 27, 12 noon – Black History Month Celebration
Check Elements and the AAERG webpage for details. Also, if you’re interested in other ways to honor Black History Month outside of the Lab, check out 7 ways to honor Black History Month.
The mission of the AAERG is to advance a diverse and inclusive work environment with a particular focus on African American current and future employees. Working through a network of dedicated professionals, the AAERG undertakes internal and external activities to attract, retain, empower and inspire African American employees to achieve their fullest potential across the spectrum of employment opportunities at Berkeley Lab including scientists, engineers, technologists, and operations staff.
