Throughout the month of February, Real Salt Lake and Utah Royals FC join communities across the country in celebrating Black history, honoring Black voices in our sport, and reaffirming our commitment to inclusion, respect, and opportunity for all. But understanding the history behind Black History Month is just as important as celebrating it each year.
Black History Month, also known as African American History Month, is an annual February recognition of the history, achievements, and lasting impact of Black Americans in the United States.
The observance began in 1926 as “Negro History Week,” founded by historian Dr. Carter G. Woodson and minister Jesse E. Moorland. The goal of creation of the observance was to promote the study and celebration of Black history and to ensure that the contributions of Black Americans were included in the nation’s historical narrative and in classrooms across the country. February was chosen to coincide with the birthdays of President Abraham Lincoln (February 12) and abolitionist Frederick Douglass (celebrated February 14) — two figures whose lives and legacies are closely tied to the fight to end slavery in the United States.
Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, led the nation during the Civil War and issued the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, which declared freedom for enslaved people in Confederate states. His leadership helped preserve the Union and laid the groundwork for the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery nationwide. Lincoln’s role in advancing freedom made his birthday a long-recognized day of significance within Black communities.
Frederick Douglass, born into slavery, escaped and became one of the most influential abolitionists, writers, and orators in American history. Through his speeches, autobiographies, and advocacy, Douglass exposed the realities of slavery and fought tirelessly for emancipation, citizenship, voting rights, and equal opportunity for Black Americans. Although his exact birth date was unknown, he chose to celebrate it on February 14, and that date became widely honored in recognition of his impact.
By aligning the observance with these two figures, Black History Month honors both the political actions that helped end slavery and the lifelong activism that pushed the nation toward greater justice and equality.
As the civil rights movement gained momentum in the 1960s, the weeklong observance grew into a month-long celebration on college campuses nationwide. In 1976, President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month, urging Americans to honor the often-overlooked accomplishments of Black citizens in every area of endeavor.
Today, Black History Month serves as a time to reflect on the resilience, innovation, leadership, and cultural influence of Black communities throughout U.S. history — while also recognizing the ongoing pursuit of equity and justice.
Each year, a national theme is designated to highlight a specific area of Black history and achievement, encouraging deeper learning and conversation across communities. Understanding this history reminds us where we’ve been, helps guide where we’re going, and reinforces the responsibility we share in building a more inclusive future — because a future without knowledge of the past cannot grow strong roots.
Black History Month begins on February 1 and continues throughout the entirety of the month.
