February is Black History Month and a time when we honor the significant contributions that African-Americans have made to the American culture and way of life. We reflect and pay special tribute to the courageous men and women who through their action and steadfastness opened doors paving the way for future generations.

Did you know?
To recall and celebrate the positive contributions to our nation made by people of African descent, American historian Carter G. Woodson established Black History Week. The first celebration occured February 12, 1926. For many years, the second week of February was set aside for this celebration to coincide with the birthdays of Black abolitionist/editor Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln. In 1976, as part of the nation's bicentennial, the week was expanded into Black History Month.

The first African-American woman to serve in Congress, Shirley Chisholm of New York, won election in 1968; 24 African-American women have followed her.