Beginning in 1926, historian Carter G. Woodson established “Negro History Week,” a week to highlight the achievements and reflect on the historical experiences of African-Americans. This week-long commemoration grew to become a well-known month observance, standing as an honor to the roles of Black American individuals and communities throughout the nation’s history.
FCHS has commemorated Black History Month in many ways over the years. For example, past students have volunteered to clear debris from Free Hill Cemetery, a nearby burial site for freed black people established in 1807. FCHS has also previously collaborated with the Fluvanna Historical Society to acknowledge and teach the community about its former African-American school, “S.C. Abrams,” now used as a school for alternative education.
FCHS Assistant Principal Chad White uses his leadership role to teach students and staff about the history of African-Americans and the roles they have played, not only in American history, but globally as well. “I push us beyond the same three names we learned as kids. I challenge teachers to spotlight not only leaders like Martin Luther King Jr., but also thinkers, inventors, artists, local figures, and everyday people who shaped this country in quiet but powerful ways,” said White.
Meanwhile, FCHS African-American Studies teacher Alexander Burruss also has a lot to share on the significance of Black History Month, and why students should learn about Black history, especially figures with local ties.
“Many students don’t realize they share DNA with important figures such as [Carter] Woodson, who was actually from Buckingham County in Virginia,” said Burruss. “It’s important to recognize the contributions of Black Americans so students, especially those in Fluvanna, understand their roots and the impact their ancestors made.”
White believes that if we don’t teach students the context behind movements, struggles, and victories, they’ll build opinions without foundations. “That’s dangerous. But when they understand the meaning behind the month… they begin to grasp something bigger: history is not static. It’s shaped by people who choose courage over comfort,” he said.
The attached video offers an overview of the history and importance of Black History Month. You can also visit this Historical Marker Database to learn more about the history of Fluvanna’s S.C. Abrams School, or reach out to the Fluvanna Historical Society for further information.
