In 1926, Carter G. Woodson implemented Negro History Week, the forerunner to Black History Month.  Woodson’s motivation behind Negro History Week was that education is instrumental in the struggle against prejudice attitudes, discriminationatory practices, and institutionalized racism.  Over the years Negro History Week evolved into Black History Month, and was officially signed into law by President Jimmy Carter in 1976.  Black History Month is met with much contention, but Woodson’s conception of education as a tool continues to be monumental.  Below are just a handful of titles from the NYSL stacks which highlight and celebrate the lived experiences and achievements of black Americans.

Stack 12: Black Art and Culture in the 20th Century by Richard J. Powell

Stack 9: Fences by August Wilson

Stack 7:  The Autobiography of Malcolm X by Alex Haley

 Bone Black: Memories of Girlhood by Bell Hooks

Stack 6: Native Son by Richard Wright

Stack 5: Kindred by Octavia Bulter

Stack 3: The Great Wells of Democracy: The Meaning of Race in American Life by Manning Marable

 Stack 2: Harlem Nocturne : Women Artists & Progressive Politics During World War II by Farah Jasmine Griffin

Stack 1: The Archaeology of the African diaspora in the Americas by Theresa A. Singleton and Mark D. Bograd

and from the Children's Library,

Through My Eyes by Ruby Bridges

Here in Harlem by Walter Dean Myers

Hand in Hand: Ten Black Men Who Changed America by Andrea Davis Pinkey

Did any of these books catch your eye?

Is there a title you recommend us to read in honor of Black History Month? 

If so, let us know in the comments field below!