WXYZ DETROIT — The origins of Black History Month date back to 1915. Thousands gathered in Chicago for a national celebration of the 50th anniversary of emancipation. One of the attendees was a young Harvard University Ph.D. Inspired by what he saw, Dr. Carter G. Woodson would eventually launch Negro History Week which later expanded to Black History Month.
Dr. Woodson understood the value of teaching and publicly recognizing America’s rich cultural history. Detroit is one of our nation’s best examples of this diversity. Throughout February, we encourage you to explore and participate in the many programs designed to celebrate African American achievements and traditions. Because of COVID-19, a lot of this year’s programs will be virtual or organized with social-distanced safeguards in place. But there are still plenty of opportunities to experience food, music, arts, education and tours.
We also invite you to watch the Black History Month stories we have been broadcasting on Channel 7 Action News and posting to a special section on the homepage of WXYZ.com.
Also included is a Black History Month quiz that should be fun for you and your family. And later this month, be on the lookout for our Black History Month specials and roundtables about the importance of equity, diversity and inclusion You’ll be able to access all of these forums on your favorite mobile app as well as our Channel 7 Facebook page.
Together, let’s use Black History Month as a catalyst to learn more about one of the largest cultural contributors to our metro Detroit community.
I'm Mike Murri, V.P. & General Manager
Broadcast: February 11 - 14, 2021
