ALCOAST 041/21 - FEB 2021 NATIONAL AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH

R 032130Z FEB 21
FM COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC
TO ALCOAST

UNCLAS
ALCOAST 041/21
SSIC 5350
SUBJ:  NATIONAL AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH
1. National African American History Month is recognized every
February and celebrates the history, accomplishments, and
contributions that African Americans have made and continue to
make for our Nation.
2. Authored by the Association for the Study of African American
Life and History (ASALH), the theme for 2021, “The Black Family:
Representation, Identity, and Diversity,” places an emphasis on
African American households, ancestors, descendants, and
communities, past and present. It invites discussion about African
American brotherhood and sisterhood, family traditions, and
community. To learn more about this theme and its inspiration,
please visit: https://asalh.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/2021Theme.pdf.
3. The origin of National African American History Month can be
traced to 1926 when historian and author Dr. Carter G. Woodson, and
founder of the organization now known as ASALH, desired to raise
awareness of and honor African Americans’ contributions to
civilization. Dr. Woodson selected a week in February that
encompassed the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass,
two key figures in the history of African Americans, for the
celebration. In 1976, this commemoration was expanded by ASALH to
Black History Month, also known as African American History Month,
and President Ford issued the first Message on the Observance of
Black History Month in that year.
4. The Coast Guard embraces and values a respectful and diverse
workforce. Appreciating and celebrating cultural observances helps
us to understand and achieve our objectives for the promotion of
equality, dignity, and respect for all members of our workforce,
ultimately enhancing our mission capabilities and personnel
readiness.
5. We encourage you to participate in events commemorating this
observance by organizing programs that highlight the history,
culture, and structure of African American families and communities.
In light of public health guidance due to the COVID-19 pandemic,
please follow established guidelines for in-person gatherings and
use virtual collaboration platforms and tools as necessary.
6. For more information about National African American History
Month, please contact Mr. Juan Torres, (202) 372-4594 or
Juan.L.Torres@uscg.mil.
7. Dr. Terri A. Dickerson, Civil Rights Director (CG-00H), sends.
8. Internet release is authorized.