Nominate Your Black History Makers In Grand Rapids

Black History Month is starting with a bang!

Plus, we have an extra day!

While Black History Month is the shortest month, we can make the best out of it by celebrating all of the beautiful things that connect us.

Get our free mobile app

Growing up, it was essential for me to learn the true history. Every single morning, at my elementary, I would hear a history fact about people who looked like me who were changing the world.

I grew up being proud to be Black. Now, I want to use my platform to highlight individuals in our area who are doing just that: making a difference.

Last year, with the help of Asia Horne and the Grand Rapids Historical Society, we shared the beautiful stories of Grand Rapids Black History Markers, like Floyd Skinner.

Now, it is time to highlight more!

Black History Month Facts

All of the facts come from We Are Teachers.

1. Carter G. Woodson is the “Father of Black History.”

2. Black History Month is in February in recognition of the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass.

3. Claudette Colvin was the first Black woman known to refuse to give up her seat on a bus. (Sorry Rosa)

4. Lucy Stanton was the first Black woman to earn a four-year college degree. (Yesss Black excellence!)

5. Nat King Cole was the first Black American to host a television show.

6. Hattie McDaniel was the first Black person to win an Oscar.

7. Thurgood Marshall was the first Black justice to serve in the U.S. Supreme Court.

What Are Black History Makers?

Black History Makers are people who are using their voices, talents, etc., to make a difference in our Grand Rapids community.

Simple.

Everyone deserves their flowers for trying to uplift the Grand Rapids Black community.

You can nominate someone in the Grand Rapids community who you believe embodies the idea of a Black History Maker.

Lisha B will bring them on the show to celebrate Black History Month.

The nomination form is below.