Black History Month is celebrated in the month of February in the United States. It began when Carter G. Woodson, a historian and professor, established the Negro History Week in 1926 to commemorate the efforts and hard work of

Carter G. Woodson

Woodson chose February for several reasons.  First, he wanted to commemorate the birth of two great American men, namely, Abraham Lincoln (born February 12, 1809) and Frederick Douglas (born February 17, 1818, and died February 20, 1895).  Numerous reforms were also observed in the month of February including the passage of the 15th Amendment giving blacks the right to vote. Many momentous events took place in the month of February.  The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) was founded on February 12, 1909 by W.E.B. DuBois and others.  Hiram Rhodes Revels, the first Black U.S. Senator, took his oath of office on February 3, 1870.

Woodson was dismayed to read that very few history books had mentioned the work of famous African Americans. He worked tirelessly and wrote several books and journals to highlight the work of numerous African Americans. He wanted the world to change its perception about blacks and recognize their contribution to American society and culture. The month of February was reserved for celebrating and recognizing the contributions and determined efforts of African Americans who helped carve American society, values, culture and tradition. He wanted blacks to enjoy the same status and adulation as their white counterparts.

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The following is from an announcement by Sen. Peralta on his sponsorship of The "Dream Act":

"The Dream Act, bill (S. 2378/ A. 2597) was introduced by Assemblyman Francisco Moya, with the strong support of Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver. It would make New York one of just four states - the others are Texas, New Mexico, and California - to offer state financial aid to the children of immigrants. In-state tuition has been available to New York's immigrant youth since 2002, an option available in just 11 other states. The criteria for access to state financial aid would match the strict criteria for students seeking in-state tuition.   

This legislation would also give young immigrants access to a broad range of state educational opportunity programs such as:

• Tuition Assistance Program (TAP);
• Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP);
• Educational Opportunity Program (EOP);
• Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program (C-STEP); and
• Opportunity programs available at community colleges.

The measure would also create a DREAM Fund committed to advancing the educational goals of the children of immigrants through privately-funded scholarships and broadened access to the New York State College Tuition Savings (529) Program through family tuition accounts.

The family tuition accounts would be available to anyone who provides a valid taxpayer identification number. They allow for systematic savings, making it easier for New York's hardworking immigrant families to save for their children's futures."

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At Renaissance, our College Bound Office has always worked with the families of all of our students, to help navigate the complex world of financial aid for education.  To help our families prepare for this, and other financial matters, we are offering a free workshop on Friday, March 8th at 6:30 PM. Please rsvp to pheeney@renaissanceharter.org if you would like to attend.