Celebrating Black History Month

HESD proudly celebrates Black History Month and the legacy, experiences & contributions of African Americans.

From California State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Tony Thurmond

Heading into the second month of the year, I want to draw your attention to Black History Month and the 2021 theme, The Black Family: Representation, Identity, and Diversity. The theme is chosen by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH), a national organization.

From the days of slavery to current times, the representation, identity, and diversity of the Black family has been an area of study in many academic disciplines; the focus of films, television, and literature; and the topic of social policy. The theme of family provides a unique opportunity to explore the African-American experience both past and present.

This year’s theme also takes on a higher degree of relevancy due to the pandemic. The impact and disruption the COVID-19 public health crisis has had on families—especially in Black and brown communities—has been a discussion point for local and national leaders.

Thank you for being the leader that shares Black History Month events with your students; we know how much acknowledgement and representation matters. You can view the virtual events happening throughout the month by visiting the ASALH web site.