Black History Month was recognized nationally in 1976, when President Gerald Ford designated the month as a time for the public to honor the contributions of Black Americans, according to the museum. The month has since inspired other groups and an appreciation of multicultural backgrounds.

A showcase of teens’ talent and creativity includes flower silhouettes, neon acrylic artwork inspired by the artist Derrick Adams and watercolor artwork inspired by artist Lorna Simpson, on display during library hours through Feb. 28, Brentwood Public Library, 34 Second Ave., free, brentwoodnylibrary.org, 631-273-7883.

Black History Month theme, African Americans and Labor, focuses on the various and profound ways that work and working of all kinds.

Black History Month, a celebration of Black history, culture and education, kicks off on Feb. 1. Historian and author Carter G.

Feb. 1 marks the first day of Black History Month, and suddenly the study of the Black experience may feel like an act of defiance.

Activities range from art exhibitions and educational lectures to community gatherings honoring African American culture and contributions.

Here's everything to know about Black History Month, including when it is, where it was first celebrated and this year's theme.

Enslaved Africans seeking to reconnect with their lost cultural traditions brought African concepts to instruments in the American musical mainstream, creating popular new American music genres

This story has been updated to correct the date of the Black Film Series at Forest Park Branch Library. February is Black History Month, and what better way to celebrate Black history and culture than by attending and supporting one of these events?