National Black History Month 2023

by Jasmine Knight, Ph.D. and Mary Sanderfer Stull, Ph.D.

Regent University joins the nation in recognizing African American History month. This month, also known as Black History month, begins February 1st and ends March 1st. In 1925, Carter G. Woodson, a Harvard-trained historian, and the Association for the Study of African American Life and History introduced what was at the time called “Negro History Week.” The overwhelming positive response eventually became a month-long celebration, affording opportunity to recognize the many historical and current contributions of African Americans.  

African Americans make up approximately 46.9 million people in the United States, with 134,567 owning their own business, and 3.2 million serving as military veterans (U.S. Census Bureau, 2022).  From the conception of this nation, African Americans have contributed to all facets of American progression, such as in science, medicine, education, arts, sports, military, government, and religion. Faith has historically been the grounding force of the African American experience.  Many early prominent African American leaders were guided by their faith and belief in a kind and just God. This foundation in Christianity continues to echo throughout black culture.  

Although there are too many to name, there are several noteworthy African Americans who used their faith to change their community, the American community.  Some examples of this leadership are: 

• Mahalia Jackson: An American gospel artist, she is considered one of the most influential vocalists of the 20th century. She believed that “faith and prayer are the vitamins of the soul.”   
• Mary McLeod Bethune: Born to former slaves, she did not learn to read until the age of 11.  She eventually became the founder and president of a prominent university. Bethune lived a life of Christian service, stating that “Faith is the first factor in a life devoted to service.  Without it, nothing is possible.  With it, nothing is impossible.”
• George Liele: Born a slave, he became the first ordained African American Baptist preacher in America, established the first African American Baptist Church in North America, and served as a missionary to Jamaica.   

This tradition continues with current faith leaders who are heads of African American denominations, conventions, and conferences. We commend Black church pastors and leaders who are a voice of hope, healing, justice, wisdom, redemption, and reconciliation.

Praise God for faith and hope in Christ as African Americans continue to make notable contributions all over the world.  Thank God for Black American History month to celebrate the contributions made by people of African American descent to this nation. May we join our fellow believers in celebrating the richness of the month, as each of us is an intricate member of the body of Christ.