February Is Black History Month

February is Black History Month, a time for all of us to learn about and honor the many contributions Black and African Americans have made. Throughout this month, Cox is offering several opportunities to celebrate the history behind these accomplishments, both within our company and across our country.

In partnership with our Black/African American Employee Resource Group, this year’s theme is Black Empowerment | Mind, Body & Soul. Our hope is that you can use your voice to advocate and feel empowered to celebrate and learn the holistic legacy of Black and African Americans.  

A Month with Years of History

Black History Month originates from the work of Dr. Carter G. Woodson, founder of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History. Determined to lead the charge, this group sponsored the first national Negro History Week in 1926 and they dedicated the second week of February to honor the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. By the 1960s, the week had grown into a monthlong celebration on college campuses across the nation, thanks to the civil rights movement and a growing awareness to celebrate Black identity.

President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month for the first time in 1976 as an opportunity “to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.” Every year since, American presidents have designated each February as Black History Month.

Why We Celebrate

Cultural Heritage Months enable us to create space to intentionally reflect upon the vibrant historical, social and societal influence of people from different cultures. We hope they build awareness, cultivate community and celebrate contributions to our culture, community and customers. These celebrations are another way we learn more about one another, learn to respect our differences and value every voice.

Learn more at coxenterprises.com/inclusion. #InclusionAtCox #LifeAtCox