Black History Month 2025 and the Renewal of the UN Decade for People of African Descent: An Opportunity for European Cities

Black History Month (BHM) originated in the United States in 1915 with an idea by historian Carter G. Woodson. Together with minister Jesse E. Moorland, he founded what is known today as the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH). In February 1926, they sponsored the first [Black] History Week in connection with Frederick Douglas' birthday. The idea of Black History Week spread to various cities and became the Black History Month we know today, particularly due to the Civil Rights Movement of the 60s.

Today, Black History Month is much more than a US phenomenon. People all over the world celebrate and commemorate Black, African and Afro-diasporic history, culture and achievements, sometimes even under modified titles such as Black Story Month or Black OurStory Month. Every year, Black History Month continues to serve as a platform for promoting cultural awareness, combating racism, and fostering solidarity all across the world. 

This year, Black History Month also celebrates the start of the second international UN Decade for People of African Descent (PAD). The first Decade was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in a Resolution (68/237) adopted on 23 December 2013. Under the theme of Recognition, Justice and Development, the Decade pursued various objectives from 2015 to 2024.

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