Black History Month Celebration: From the Threads of Our Past to the Fabric of Our Future

On February 19, the auditorium of Carter G. Woodson High School was filled with pride, history, and celebration as students, educators, and community members gathered for a powerful Black History Month event. Named after the "Father of Black History," Woodson High School was the perfect setting to reflect on the past while looking toward the future.

Carter G. Woodson believed deeply in the power of education. "Woodson knew teaching was a radical act," said keynote speaker Wendi Manuel-Scott, professor of integrative studies and history at George Mason University. She challenged attendees to embrace lifelong learning, stating, "Read books that challenge you. Expand your mind and generate questions. I hope that Woodson's legacy inspires you to never stop asking questions. Your power is in your curiosity."

The event was a blend of history, reflection, and community storytelling. Throughout the evening, students read passages from Black Communities of Fairfax: A History, providing attendees with invaluable lessons about the often-overlooked Black history within Fairfax County. The book sheds light on the resilience and contributions of Black residents who shaped the region despite the challenges of segregation and systemic discrimination.

A highlight of the celebration was a panel discussion featuring the authors of Black Communities of Fairfax: A History. They shared personal reflections on the importance of documenting their ancestors' experiences. "We want people to know our segregated community existed," one author expressed, emphasizing the necessity of preserving these stories for future generations.

Additionally, FCPS Chief Equity Officer Nardos King and School Board members Ricardy Anderson and Marcia St. John-Cunning offered remarks, underscoring the importance of equity, representation, and continued progress in education. 

King reflected on the significance of the event, stating, "The inaugural FCPS Black History Month Celebration was a powerful evening of reflection, recognition, and inspiration. As we honored the contributions of many in the Fairfax community, we celebrated the rich legacy of Black excellence and reaffirmed our commitment to equity and inclusion. This event was a testament to the strength of our shared history and the bright future we are building together."

The event honored not only the legacy of Carter G. Woodson but also the countless individuals who have contributed to Black history in Fairfax County and beyond. By revisiting the past and amplifying untold stories, the celebration embodied the theme of weaving history into the “fabric of the future.” As the night concluded, one thing was clear: the spirit of inquiry, resilience, and community fostered by Woodson continues to inspire new generations to learn, question, and celebrate Black history every day.