Black History Month
Published: February 23, 2023
February is Black History Month, and we invite you to join us in observing the achievements of African Americans in U.S. history. This year we spotlight three African Americans whose actions align with the 2023 Black History Month theme of Black Resistance. They are recognized throughout several collections on GovInfo. Visit the links to read more.
John Lewis
Senator John Lewis was a civil rights leader and a dedicated public servant who made critical contributions to the civil rights movement throughout his life. He was a leader of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) and a key figure in the 1965 march from Selma to Montgomery. He was also an early advocate of the Freedom Rides and helped organize the 1963 March on Washington. A champion of voting rights, Senator Lewis introduced the Voter Empowerment Act in 2006, which aimed to make it easier for people to register and vote. He was a powerful voice for civil rights and social justice and spoke out courageously on issues of racial injustice and police brutality. In House Document 108-224 (October 15, 2008), Lewis is referred to as “the Conscience of the U.S. Congress” for his continuous work to advance civil rights. His life and career continue to be a source of inspiration for many who seek to bring about positive change in society.
Fannie Lou Hamer
Fannie Lou Hamer was a civil rights activist and leader in the SNCC. She was a fierce advocate for voting rights, organizing grassroots efforts to register African Americans to vote and traveling across the country to speak about civil rights issues. Hamer was a leader in the Poor People’s Campaign, a march on Washington to demand economic justice and an end to poverty. She was arrested multiple times for her activism and endured physical violence, but she never gave up her fight. In the Congressional Record Volume 163 Issue 158 (October 3, 2017), her story is referred to as an “inspiration to the Americans today who are fighting to make our country a better place to live.” Her courage in the face of adversity has been a catalyst to modern activists and continues to be a source of strength in the fight for social justice.
Frederick Douglass
Frederick Douglass was an African American social reformer, orator, writer, and statesman. He was a tireless advocate of freedom, justice, and equality, speaking out against slavery and advocating for the rights of African Americans. A major influence on the civil rights movement, Douglass published several books on the subject, including “The Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass” which was a groundbreaking work in documenting the horrors of slavery. He was also a major supporter of the Underground Railroad, helping to provide the safe passage of thousands of slaves to freedom. In the Congressional Record Volume 163 Issue 158 (February 14, 2005) , he is said to have “set an example for all Americans by working toward a greater purpose and racial equality.” His actions helped to shape the civil rights movement and paved the way for future generations of activists.
Article Sources and Additional Resources
Learn more about African Americans who have served in Congress in H. Doc. 108-224 - Black Americans in Congress 1870 - 2007.
View Proclamation 10518 from the President of the United States of America for National Black History Month, 2023.
Keep up to date with special displays and events at BlackHistoryMonth.gov.
Celebrate Black Resistance: A Journey to Equality with the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
Explore African American history with the National Archives.