February is Black History Month!

Posted February 16th, 2025 in Local Events, Local News, Massachusetts News, National News

February is Black History Month!

What is Black History Month?

Black History Month is an annual observance that celebrates the achievements, contributions, and history of Black people. It takes place every February in the United States and Canada, and in October in the United Kingdom and Ireland.

The origins of Black History Month date back to 1926, when historian Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLH) established “Negro History Week.” They chose the second week of February to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, two figures who played significant roles in the history of African Americans. The week-long celebration eventually expanded to a month-long observance in 1976, during the United States Bicentennial.

Throughout the month, various events, programs, and activities are organized, including lectures, performances, exhibitions, and discussions. These events aim to educate and engage people of all backgrounds in understanding and appreciating Black history and culture.

Black History Month serves several important purposes such as:

Education: It highlights the often-overlooked contributions of Black individuals to society, science, culture, and politics.
Recognition: It honors the legacy and achievements of Black pioneers, activists, and leaders.
Awareness: It raises awareness about the ongoing struggles and challenges faced by Black communities.
Inspiration: It inspires future generations to learn about and continue the work of those who came before them.

Mental Health and Substance Use Prevalence Among Black Americans

Mental health and substance use are critical issues within the Black community, influenced by various social, economic, and cultural factors. Here are some important statistics and information to take into account:

Black adults in the U.S. are more likely than white adults to report persistent symptoms of emotional distress, such as sadness and feeling like everything is an effort. However, they are less likely to receive mental health treatment, with only one in three Black adults with mental illness receiving care.
Suicide is a significant concern, particularly among young Black individuals. In 2022, it was the third leading cause of death for Black Americans aged 10 to 24.
The rates of substance use disorders among Black Americans are similar to those of the general population. About 6.9% of Black Americans have a substance use disorder.
Black individuals face significant barriers to accessing mental health and substance use treatment, including socioeconomic disparities, stigma, and a lack of culturally competent care.

BHM’s Role in Reducing Mental Health and Substance Use Challenges

Black History Month helps to create a more supportive environment for individuals facing mental health and substance use challenges, ultimately contributing to better overall well-being.

Black History Month can play a significant role in reducing mental health and substance use challenges in several ways:

Raising Awareness: By highlighting the unique mental health challenges faced by Black communities, Black History Month helps to bring these issues to the forefront. This increased awareness can lead to more conversations about mental health and substance use, reducing stigma and encouraging individuals to seek help.
Promoting Cultural Competence: Events and programs during Black History Month often emphasize the importance of culturally competent care. This means providing mental health and substance use services that are sensitive to the cultural backgrounds and experiences of Black individuals. Culturally competent care can improve treatment outcomes and make individuals feel more understood and supported.
Highlighting Resources: Black History Month provides an opportunity to share information about available mental health and substance use resources. This can include local support groups, counseling services, and hotlines that are specifically geared towards the Black community.
Celebrating Strength and Resilience: By celebrating the achievements and contributions of Black individuals, Black History Month fosters a sense of pride and resilience. This positive reinforcement can improve mental well-being and provide a sense of community and support.
Encouraging Prevention and Early Intervention: Black History Month can also focus on the importance of prevention and early intervention for mental health and substance use issues. Educational programs and workshops can teach individuals about the signs and symptoms of mental health conditions and substance use disorders, encouraging them to seek help early.

What can I do to show my support to the Black community, not just during Black History Month, but every day?

Supporting the Black community is a meaningful and ongoing commitment. Here are some ways you can show your support every day:

Learn About Black History: Read books, watch documentaries, and attend events that highlight Black history and culture.
Understand Systemic Issues: Educate yourself on systemic racism, social justice issues, and the challenges faced by the Black community.
Support Policies: Advocate for policies and legislation that promote racial equality and justice.
Listen and Learn: Listen to and amplify the voices of Black individuals and communities. Share their stories, achievements, and perspectives.
Support Black Creators: Follow and support Black artists, writers, musicians, and content creators.
Create Safe Spaces: Ensure that your workplace, school, or community is inclusive and welcoming to everyone.
Challenge Biases: Reflect on and challenge your own biases and encourage others to do the same.