YOU! HOLD THE KEY TO CHANGE | Identity Months In America: Are They Losing Significance?

BY DR. ELLEN BROWN

Black History Month 2025 has passed — the shortest yet most significant month of the year. 

However, it’s not just the brevity causing a stir. This year, the President of the United States, Donald Trump, issued a proclamation to continue the recognition of February as Black History Month. It is a holiday celebrated and acknowledged by millions worldwide, yet it’s a recognition that offers no days off or school closures for observance. This threat to its recognition is a call to action. 

As February dawned, this headline topped an NBC News story: “Federal agencies bar Black History Month and other ‘special observances.’” And then there was this remarkable guidance issued by new Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, ending a military tradition dating back 50 years: “Identity Months Dead at DoD,” stating that, “Going forward, DoD Components and Military Departments will not use official resources, to include man-hours, to host celebrations or events related to cultural awareness months, including National African American/Black History Month.” 

In preparation for this month’s article, I stumbled upon a treasure: an organization founded in 1915 by Dr. Carter Woodson: the Association for the Study of African American Life and History. To this day, ASALH thrives under the leadership of President Karsonya Wise Whitehead. She perceives our history as being under attack since Donald Trump announced the end of support for DEI; diversity, equity, and inclusion are not just under scrutiny; they are on the chopping block. 

This is a call to action for all of us who value these principles. Black History Month offers so much for everyone, including people of all races and persuasions. The mission of this association is “to promote, research, preserve, interpret, and disseminate information about Black life, history, and culture to the global community.” 

Freedom of speech is a fundamental right for Americans and others residing in The United States and its territories. As Americans, we must listen closely to words coming out of the White House, especially those purporting that freedoms and losses of life fought for are set aside and labeled as “Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and Preferencing.” Our freedom of speech offers varying opinions and support and things to consider from those with differing views. Remember: it takes a village! Freedom of speech ain’t free! Please join the community by sharing your thoughts. 

Your thoughts and perspectives are crucial to the ongoing discussion. Dr. Ellen encourages your responses to topics in the column. Please send your thoughts to ebrown.nci@gmail.com, and let’s keep the conversation going. Your voice matters.