Valdosta Celebrates Black History Month

Local resident calls for year-round recognition of Black American contributions

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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In a letter to the editor, Freeman S. Rivers Sr. of Hahira, Georgia reflects on the importance of Black History Month and the need to recognize the achievements and accomplishments of Black Americans throughout the year. Rivers highlights key historical figures and events, from the origins of slavery in America to the role of Simon of Cyrene in the Bible, as he makes the case for expanded celebration and education around Black history.

Why it matters

This letter underscores the ongoing efforts to shed light on the integral role of Black Americans in the history and development of the United States. As the country prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, there is a renewed push to ensure Black history and contributions are fully recognized and incorporated into the national narrative.

The details

In his letter, Rivers references the establishment of Negro History Week by historian Carter G. Woodson in 1926, which later became the month-long Black History Month observance in 1976. He also notes the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass falling in February, as well as the biblical figure of Simon of Cyrene, a North African man compelled to carry the cross of Jesus. Rivers argues that the achievements of Black Americans have been "left out of the books and overlooked" throughout history, and calls for expanded celebration and education around Black history not just in February, but "all year long."

  • In 1926, historian Carter G. Woodson helped establish Negro History Week.
  • In 1976, Negro History Week became a month-long national observance known as Black History Month.
  • February is the birth month of both President Abraham Lincoln and abolitionist Frederick Douglass.

The players

Carter G. Woodson

An African-American historian who co-founded The Association for the Study of Negro Life and History and helped establish Negro History Week in 1926, which later became Black History Month.

Abraham Lincoln

The 16th President of the United States, whose birthday falls in February.

Frederick Douglass

A prominent African-American abolitionist, author, and orator whose birthday also falls in February.

Simon of Cyrene

A man from North Africa who was compelled to carry the cross of Jesus on the way to the crucifixion, as described in the Bible.

Freeman S. Rivers Sr.

A resident of Hahira, Georgia who wrote a letter to the editor advocating for expanded recognition of Black history and contributions.

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What they’re saying

“Black Americans, other races and immigrants helped build America. We need black history celebration in February and all year long.”

— Freeman S. Rivers Sr., Hahira Resident (Valdosta Daily Times)

The takeaway

This letter highlights the ongoing need to ensure the history, achievements, and contributions of Black Americans are fully recognized and celebrated, not just during Black History Month, but throughout the year. As the country approaches a major milestone in its 250th anniversary, there is a renewed focus on incorporating diverse perspectives and narratives into the national story.