Black History Month
February 2013
Each February, Black History Month honors the struggles and triumphs of millions of American citizens over the most devastating obstacles — slavery, prejudice, poverty — as well as their contributions to the nation’s cultural and political life.
Official Texts
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Presidential Proclamation -- Martin Luther King, Jr., Federal Holiday, 2013
At a time of deep division nearly 50 years ago, a booming voice for justice rang out across the National Mall, reverberated around our country, and sent ripples throughout the world. Speaking to thousands upon thousands rallying for jobs and freedom, the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., delivered his "I Have a Dream" speech, challenging America to take up the worthy task of perfecting our Union. Full Text »
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Presidential Proclamation -- 150th Anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation
On December 31, 1862, our Nation marked the end of another year of civil war. At Shiloh and Seven Pines, Harpers Ferry and Antietam, brother had fought against brother. Full Text »
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Obama Proclamation on National African American History Month
In America, we share a dream that lies at the heart of our founding: that no matter who you are, no matter what you look like, no matter how modest your beginnings or the circumstances of your birth, you can make it if you try. Full Text »
Publications
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Free at Last
This book recounts how African-Americans struggled to win the civil rights enjoyed by other Americans. It is a story of persistence that ultimately succeed... Download (6.35 MB) »
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Abraham Lincoln: A Legacy of Freedom
The year 2009 marks the bicentennial of the birth of Abraham Lincoln, the nation’s 16th president, and the man often considered its greatest leader. Download (PDF 6.82 MB) »
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