How To Celebrate Black History Month with UC San Diego Extended Studies

Black History Month is a time to honor the legacy and contributions of African Americans throughout U.S. history, including the work of activists and civil rights pioneers.

Each February, the Division of Extended Studies proudly joins the campus community in celebrating the achievements and contributions of the Black community. At Extended Studies, we recognize the significance of this observance and seek to provide educational opportunities and foster community engagement during Black History Month.

Black History Month Theme 2025

The 2025 Black History Month theme, African Americans and Labor, highlights the profound ways in which work has intersected with the collective experiences of Black people. This theme underscores the transformative impact of Black labor—ranging from the agricultural contributions of enslaved Africans that sustained Low Country colonies, to debates among Black educators about vocational training, self-help initiatives and entrepreneurship in Black communities. Additionally, it honors the role of organized labor in combating economic and social injustice. Across the U.S., Africa, and the diaspora, Black people’s work has left an indelible mark on history.

The Origins of Black History Month

Black History Month is an annual celebration of the achievements and contributions of African Americans to U.S. history. It traces its origins back to 1915, a century after the Thirteenth Amendment abolished slavery in the United States. That year, Carter G. Woodson and Jesse E. Moorland founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLH), an organization dedicated to researching and promoting the accomplishments of Black Americans and those of African descent.

Today, this organization is known as the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH). In 1926, the group sponsored the first National Negro History Week, selecting the second week of February to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. This inspired communities to organize local celebrations, establish historical events, and showcase the significant impact of African Americans.

The civil rights movement further highlighted the need for broader recognition, ultimately leading to the establishment of Black History Month. In 1976, President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month, calling on Americans to honor the often-overlooked achievements of Black Americans throughout history.

How You Can Get Involved

There are many ways to get involved with the celebration; here are just a few:

• Attend Events: Participate in lectures, workshops, and seminars hosted by local organizations, schools, or universities.
• Read Books: Explore literature written by Black authors or focused on African American history, culture, and contributions.
• Watch Documentaries or Films: Watch works highlighting Black history, civil rights movements, or African American pioneers.
• Support Black-Owned Businesses: Purchase goods and services from Black entrepreneurs in your community or online.
• Volunteer: Offer your time to organizations that support Black communities or work toward racial equality.
• Donate: Contribute to charities or nonprofits focused on uplifting Black communities or preserving Black history.
• Visit Museums or Exhibits: Explore exhibits dedicated to African American history, such as African American history museums or local art galleries.

For more ideas, visit UC San Diego Black History Month’s website at https://blackhistorymonth.ucsd.edu/2025/

UC San Diego Extended Studies Honors Black History Month 

UC San Diego Extended Studies features dynamic programs and events exploring topics unique to the black experience and featuring black leaders. Following is a selection of opportunities.

Black Lactation Matters Project

The Lactation and Perinatal Programs have partnered with Rutendo Ajayi, a UC Berkeley Master’s in Public Health candidate, and Renee Clarke, a NICU nurse, to offer free tuition to 10 Black doulas for specialized education. This initiative, part of the Black Lactation Matters program, aims to promote Black breastfeeding and improve maternal health outcomes.

By becoming trained Lactation Educator Counselors (LECs), these doulas will build trust and provide personalized breastfeeding support to mothers in their own homes. The program seeks to increase breastfeeding rates in the Black community and address the maternal risk factors contributing to Black maternal mortality and morbidity—issues that have affected the community for generations.

Public Events and Lectures

UC San Diego Extended Studies enriches the community by helping shape the civic dialogue through thought-provoking lectures and arts and culture programs. Some recent events have included relevant topics, speakers and performers. They are available for viewing on UCTV. 

• A Time for Change Now with Rev. Dr. Bernice King
• The State of America: Today's Social and Political Issues with Columnist Charles Blow
• Redeeming the Soul of America: Racial and LGBTQ Justice with Father Bryan Massingale
• Intersections Concert Series 

To learn about upcoming event opportunities, please visit the Extended Studies Public Events and Lectures page.

Conclusion: Black History Month Is an Opportunity for Learning

February is a time to honor and celebrate the contributions of black cultures. At UC San Diego Extended Studies, we are committed to sharing stories from the past through our courses and events, while continuing our lifelong journey of learning and discovery.