The month of February marks the start of Black History Month, a federally recognized celebration of the contributions that African Americans have made to this country. It’s a time to reflect on the continued struggle for racial justice. This began as a week-long recognition in 1926 because of Harvard historian Carter Woodson after he witnessed how Black people were being underrepresented throughout history. The week was officially recognized as a month in 1976. February was chosen as the month to celebrate because Black abolitionist and writer Fredrick Douglass was born in this month, and so was Abraham Lincoln, who played an important role in shaping Black history.

Since 1976, every American president has endorsed a specific theme for Black History Month. The theme for this year, "The Black Family: Representation, Identity and Diversity" explores the dispersion of the African American population across the United States. Over time, the Black family’s representation has been revered and stereotyped, and knows no single location.

This February, during Black History month, the American people are called to honor the history and achievements of Black Americans and to consider the centuries of struggle that have brought us to this time of reckoning, redemption, and hope. During this time of reflection, we must all keep in mind the principles of this nation - that all people are created equal and have the right to be treated equally. To get involved, you are welcome to join the MMAC’s National Black Coalition of Federal Aviation Employees (NBCFAE).