Every year, February 1 marks the kickoff for Black History Month. Originiating in 1926 as “Negro History week” , Black History Month wasn’t officially recognized until 1976. This month serves as a time to recognize the many achievements of the African American community despite their history of being persecuted and discriminated against. As the world continues to battle the latest surge in the continually evolving COVID-19 pandemic, it seems only fitting that CRJ’s 2022 Black History Month theme is Black Health and Wellness.
During this 46th Black History Month, the CRJ community will be reflecting on the many significant contributions the African American community has brought to the medical community, from ground-breaking doctors and nurses, to life-saving medical practices and procedures introduced at the hands of African Americans. Our healthcare system has faced unprecedented challenges over the past two years of the pandemic, and it is important to honor the positive impact the black community has had in overcoming the challenges of this global health crisis.
This month also serves as an opportunity to spark inspiration amongst all of our scholars here at Cristo Rey and remind them each of their potential to be great and to be leaders in their community. As a college-preparatory institution based in Baltimore, it is our goal to provide our students not only with the academic preparation needed to be successful, but also the work experience needed to continue pushing the African American community forward.
As President Gerald Ford stated, all of us at Cristo Rey will use this month to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”
