2.01.23 – February Recognitions

Wednesday, February 1, 2023

February Recognitions

February is Black History Month, celebrating African American roles in our history and the achievements that continue to push our country to greatness.

February was chosen as Black History Month because it is the birthday month of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, who both influenced the abolishment of slavery in the United States. Frederick Douglass was born into slavery and escaped from the south to the north, then later became an abolitionist and social reformer. His powerful speaking and writing changed people’s hearts and minds about the wrongful action of slavery. Through the Emancipation Proclamation, Abraham Lincoln ordered all slaves free in the remaining ten states, followed by the 13th amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which ended slavery and forced labor in any form.

This year, the theme for Black History Month is “Black Resistance.” Change has come from standing up to oppression, racism, and violence while highlighting the power of equity in our principles and actions. We are so proud of those in our history who have paved the way for change, and we stand beside the work done each day to transform this country into what we envision it to be.

February 1 is National Freedom Day which honors the signing of a resolution and was ratified as the 13th amendment of the U.S. Constitution, abolishing slavery on February 1, 1865

On February 4, we celebrate the birthday of Rosa Parks and her part as a civil rights leader in the progression of the civil rights movement by refusing to give up her seat on a bus to a white person.

February 5 is the Snow Moon and is the first full moon of February. It is also named the Hunger Moon by some Native American tribes. On this day, you can spot Mercury, which appears at its farthest distance from the Sun in the morning sky.

February 11 is the birthday of Tammy Baldwin, who is the first openly LGBTQ woman elected to both the House of Representatives and the Senate.

February 15 is Nirvana Day, also known as Parinirvana. This annual festival remembers the death of the Buddha after he reached Nirvana.

February 15 is also Susan B. Anthony Day. This day celebrates the birthday of the social reformer, women’s rights activist, and one of the most well-known leaders of the women’s suffrage movement.

February 18 is Maha Shivratri, a Hindu festival before the arrival of Summer on the night before the new moon marks the remembrance of overcoming darkness and ignorance.

Presidents’ Day is on February 20 this year. Presidents’ Day, also called Washington’s Birthday, is a holiday in the United States celebrated on the third Monday of February to honor all persons who served as presidents of the United States.

February 20 is also World Day of Social Justice. It is a day to remind us of the importance of social work for human rights and such social protections that adversely affects our well-being.

On February 21 we celebrate Mardi Gras! Mardi Gras is French for “Fat Tuesday,” reflecting the practice of the last night of eating rich, fatty foods before the ritual Lenten sacrifices and fasting of the Lenten season.

Ash Wednesday is observed on February 22. Observed by Christians as a holy day of fasting and praying, Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the season of Lent.

In Solidarity,

Chaddrian Calhoun and Rhonda Curtright
APFA Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee
[email protected]