Jim Hunter came to speak today about Black History Month, and, in particular, how it relates to interior Alaska.
 
He not only spoke about his own experiences, but also the different types or local organizations, programs, and celebrations that occur in Fairbanks that relate to Black History Month. His discussion included such topics as community celebrations, invited speakers, reading programs, and ways to learn more about the particular contributions of past African-American Alaskans.

In 1926, Carter G. Woodson began what was to become Black History Month. From 1926 to 1976, it only lasted for one week each year. In 1976 it was lengthened to a full month. Since then, it has become a month-long tradition in our country to pay heed to the contributions, both extraordinary and ordinary, that African-Americans have made to this nation and our way of life. The timing of this time of remembrance is due the February birthdays of Frederick Douglas and Abraham Lincoln.

Montean Jackson, head of the JP Jones Community Center, also joined him for part of the presentation. Together they discussed community programs, Alaskan history, and their own personal experiences where they grew up.

Additionally, they answered a great many questions. Their presentation was lively and informative. Both of them work hard to serve our community, and we thank them for illuminating an important time of celebration that many of us knew very little about.