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Celebrating Black History Month in February

February 1, 2022
BHM

FAACT is humbled to join our nation in recognizing Black History Month. Our commitment to our food allergy community includes a commitment to a stronger understanding and learning about diversity, equity, and inclusion. To this end, FAACT is working with members of the FAACT Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Advisory Board to affect change as we break down the barriers of systemic racism and inequity that many food allergy families experience. 

How did Black History Month get started? In 1926, the Association for the Study of American Life and History sponsored Negro History Week to honor the accomplishments and history of black Americans. For decades, people in black communities continued this tradition, and several mayors across the U.S. issued proclamations in support of this week. However, it wasn’t until the 1960s, when the Civil Rights Movement was in its prime, that this celebration picked up more traction. The period of celebration was extended, and Negro History Week was renamed Black History Month.

It is important to remember the experiences and sacrifices of those who participated in Negro History Week, the Civil Rights Movement, and other forward-moving endeavors. It is through this push for justice and equality for Black people and African-Americans that we all can learn great lessons about pushing for change and inclusion.

In the food allergy community, these very lessons of persistence, standing on what is right, unity, and so much more have helped us advocate for legislation, change manufacturing processes, improve research, and create more robust education about food allergies and their impact on all persons in every community.

During this special month, we invite you to celebrate Black leaders who inspire us and learn more about Black culture in America. Here are a few places to get started:

Thank you NAACP and WeAreTeachers.com for these inspirational ideas for self-reflection and education.