You wonder if I listen,

If I really hear what

you say.

A History of Black History
In February, the nation joins African Americans in celebrating their rich culture, heritage, and contributions to the American lifestyle during Black History Month.  Black History Month began as "Negro History Week" in 1926 which was established by Carter G. Woodson and was expanded to a month long celebration in 1976. Woodson is said to have chosen the second week in February for the celebration to honor the birthdays of Frederick Douglass, an abolitionist and editor, and Abraham Lincoln.

U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- As a people and as a nation, we have come a long way since the civil rights movement of the early 1960s. King would be proud. But at the same time, we have not yet achieved the point he devoted his life to help our society reach.
One of the most significant speeches in our nation's history was the "I Have a Dream" speech, which King delivered Aug. 28, 1963. During this speech, King expressed hope for a world where men and women would be "judged not on the color of their skin, but by the content of their character."

Ardena Garth is the first African American woman public defender in Tennessee’s Hamilton County. The State of Tennessee created the office of public defenders 18 years ago. It was originally an appointed position by the Governor. Ardena was the only applicant with both defense and prosecutorial experience. Of the 27 initially appointed public defenders, only two were black women. When the office became an elected one in order to assure local accountability, she ran for office and won. Tennessee’s first elected black female public defender has been re-elected several times.

Cultures all over the world have individual artistic expressions that set them apart. One of these unique gifts that varies between people groups is the art of dance. African tribal dances began to shape and define their culture long before it transferred to America. Modern day African American dance has been revolutionized into a creative expression of talent and movement. These exceptional stylistic qualities can be seen in specialized dance companies like that of Alvin Ailey. The heart and soul that comes out through their artistic talents compels generations everywhere.