Black History Month 2025
Contributor: The Inclusion Diversity Equity Advocacy (I.D.E.A.) Committee
The theme for Black History Month 2025 is "African Americans and Labor." This theme explores the diverse and significant ways different types of work have shaped and intersected with the collective experiences of Black people throughout history.
The Traditional colors for Black History Month are: BLACK, RED, YELLOW, and GREEN
The meanings and symbolism of these colors may vary slightly depending on the source, but they collectively represent the identity, roots, and struggles of the Black diaspora. The colors are drawn from the Pan-African flag, symbolizing Black unity and independence, with yellow also reflecting the significance of Ethiopia as one of the few African nations that resisted colonial rule.
- Black: Represents the resilience and rich heritage of Black people.
- Red: Symbolizes the blood of Black individuals who have been innocent victims of violence and their struggles for liberation.
- Yellow: Conveys optimism, justice, and equality. It also connects to the Ethiopian flag, a powerful symbol for people of color, as Ethiopia remained largely free from colonial rule.
- Green: Represents the lushness of the African continent and hope for a better future.
The WHAT, WHY, and WHEN
As an organization dedicated to serving a diverse community, we embrace the opportunity to deepen our understanding of this important area. February, designated as Black History Month, provides an ideal moment for us to invest time in expanding our knowledge. While the commitment to continuous learning extends beyond one month, Black History Month serves as an annual reminder that Black history is an essential part of American history. Black culture is woven into the fabric of American culture, and Black stories are crucial to the ongoing narrative of our nation.
What:
- Black History Month is an annual celebration that began in the U.S. in 1926.
- It was officially recognized in 1976 under President Gerald Ford.
- Organized by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH), the founders of Black History Month.
- Each year, ASALH selects a new theme.
- The ASALH theme for Black History Month 2025 is: “African Americans and Labor.”
Why:
- Black history is an integral part of American history and should not be viewed as separate.
- Much of Black history is often overlooked or not traditionally taught.
- This celebration highlights Black history and honors the contributions and achievements of African Americans to our nation’s history and culture.
When:
- Observed throughout February.
- February was chosen to align with the birthday of Frederick Douglass, a prominent African American orator, social reformer, writer, and abolitionist.
- Celebrated in the U.S. and Canada in February, while Ireland and the U.K. observe it in October.
Sources
https://parade.com/living/black-history-month-colors
https://www.history.com/topics/black-history/black-history-month
https://asalh.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/2025-Black-History-Theme-Executive-Summary-1.pdf
Professional Develoment Opportunities
Black History Nerds Saturday School is a professional development series for pre-K–12 school teachers and others interested in learning more about Black history and race. These one-hour sessions aim to help develop Black history content pedagogical knowledge. Professional development credits are possible.
Click the link to learn more about this opportunity: Black History Nerds Saturday School - Center for K–12 Black History and Racial Literacy Education - University at Buffalo
Resources to expand our learning
Link: The Man Behind Black History Month
Carter G. Woodson was a Harvard trained historian and scholar whose dedication to celebrating the historic contributions of black people led to the establishment of Black History Month, marked every February since 1976.
Black History Month starts today, February 1st: What to know about its origins and myths
LINK: Learn more about the rich history of Black Americans in Buffalo
LINK: Black History Month
Resources for TEACHERS
40 Inspiring Black History Student Activities
Black History Month Resources for the classroom
Black Women In History Kids May Not Know (But Should Study!)
Martin Luther King Jr Lessons and Activities for Kids
19 Harriet Tubman Lessons, Activities and Projects for Kids
The untold story of the Underground Railroad
Explore African American Heritage in Buffalo
Videos:
Buffalo: Lift every voice (3:38)