National Black Literacy Day

A diverse group of children sitting in a cozy reading nook, surrounded by books of various genres and cultures, wearing colorful outfits. — National black literacy day illustration

Hey there! Are you ready to dive into the fascinating world of National Black Literacy Day? Well, grab your reading glasses and get cozy, because we've got a story to tell!

When is Black Literacy Day?

It's national black literacy day on the 14th February.

The Origins of National Black Literacy Day

On this special day, we honor the importance of literacy within the Black community. It's a day to celebrate and recognize all the African American authors, poets, and storytellers who have shaped our literary landscape. National Black Literacy Day encourages us to embrace diversity in literature, promote literacy initiatives, and foster a love for reading among people of all backgrounds.

A Journey through the Internet's Pages

Since the dawn of the internet, National Black Literacy Day has been making its way into the hearts and minds of people from all over the world. With a total of 95 online mentions, this day has undoubtedly left its mark on the digital realm. The highest number of mentions occurred on February 14, 2021. Looks like love for literature was in the air that day!

Spreading the Love for Books

To celebrate National Black Literacy Day, people engage in a variety of activities. Some organize book club meetings, where they discuss and explore the works of Black authors. Others might take part in community events that promote reading and provide access to books for underprivileged children. It's a day to inspire others to pick up a book and let their imaginations soar!

History behind the term 'Black Literacy'

1865

Abolition of slavery

After the American Civil War, slavery was officially abolished in the United States with the ratification of the Thirteenth Amendment in 1865. This landmark event marked the end of legal slavery and paved the way for new opportunities for the African American community.

1865

The Freedmen's Bureau

In 1865, the Freedmen's Bureau was established by the U.S. government to aid formerly enslaved African Americans in their transition to freedom. The bureau played a vital role in providing education and resources to newly freed individuals, including the promotion of black literacy.

1866

Black Codes

During the Reconstruction era, some southern states introduced laws known as 'Black Codes' to restrict the rights and freedoms of African Americans. These discriminatory laws aimed to maintain white supremacy and hindered the progress of black literacy by limiting educational opportunities.

1896

Plessy v. Ferguson

In 1896, the landmark Supreme Court case Plessy v. Ferguson upheld the principle of 'separate but equal,' allowing racial segregation to prevail. As a result, black educational institutions were underfunded and lacked resources, impeding the growth of black literacy.

1954

Brown v. Board of Education

In 1954, the Supreme Court's ruling in Brown v. Board of Education overturned the 'separate but equal' doctrine, deeming racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional. This decision set the stage for equal educational opportunities and contributed to the advancement of black literacy.

1965

Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Voting Rights Act of 1965

The Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 were pivotal in eliminating racial discrimination and ensuring equal rights for African Americans. These landmark legislations promoted equal access to education and helped bridge the literacy gap among different racial groups.

1997

National African American Read-In Chain

In 1997, the Black Caucus of the National Council of Teachers of English initiated the National African American Read-In Chain as part of Black History Month celebrations. This annual event encourages schools, libraries, and communities to read and discuss African American literature, promoting black literacy awareness.

Did you know?

Did you know that the first widely recognized African American writer was Phillis Wheatley? She gained fame for her poetry, becoming a pivotal figure in American literature. Wheatley's work not only displayed her talent but also helped pave the way for future generations of Black writers. Talk about leaving a lasting legacy!