Black History Month is a time to recognize the lived, shared experience of all Black folks who have fundamentally shaped, challenged, and ultimately strengthened America. It’s about taking an unvarnished look at the past so that we can create a better future. As we mark 100 years of celebrating Black history, let’s honor the sacrifices of the leaders who came before us, and recommit ourselves to continuing their work. | Barack Obama

Without Black people, there is no culture as we know it, because so much of what defines global music, art, fashion, and language is rooted in the creativity, struggle, and brilliance of the African diaspora. From jazz, blues, rock, hip-hop, and R&B to countless dance styles, fashion trends, and slang, Black innovation has set the tone for generations. Even mainstream American culture is essentially Black culture repackaged—our rhythms, our style, our flavor, and our voice have been the blueprin