MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- February marks the start of Black History Month and Minot AFB is excited to have the opportunity to continue the growth of observing, celebrating and honoring the contributions of African Americans to the Air Force and to our nation.
In 1925, Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of African American Life and History created the Negro History Week that President Gerald R. Ford would expand to a month, creating the Black History Month we know today.
This year’s theme is the Black Family: Representation, identity and diversity. The focus is to explore, educate and bring attention to the adjustments, changes, movements, and innovations that people of African descent, past and present, have made.
“As an African American, I grew up ignorant about the history of my race. As I got older and began to learn about our culture, it instilled a sense of pride because I realized that knowing where I came from gave me the knowledge of my foundation for where I’m going,” said Tech. Sgt. Perry Sinclair, President of the African American Heritage Council.
“When celebrating Black History Month, it’s a great opportunity to inspire our youth and educate people of all races to give an understating of the things that make us proud to be who we are.”
The African American Heritage Council is hosting several events during the month, starting off with Col. Michael Walters, commander of the 5th Bomb Wing, issuing a proclamation of the history and official start of Black History Month. The event continued by hosting an Essential Needs drive for the YWCA Women and Children Homeless Shelter inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his words of “What are you doing for others?”
The AAHC will also host a “Let’s Talk” Luncheon with the Diversity and Inclusion Working Group on Feb. 17 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the North Plains Chapel. It will be an open forum for airmen to discuss and provide insight on how to improve racial disparities in the military discipline process, development and career opportunities for African-Americans. Free food and drink will be provided.
Finally, the AAHC will end the month with a Celebration Ceremony on Feb. 26 at 2 p.m. to highlight influential African American leaders from past and present as well as showcase art displays from the Youth Center with closing remarks from Col. Christopher Menuey, 91st Missile Wing Commander.
Minot AFB would like to thank all those who volunteered to organize the events and to those who come out