Black History Month is a yearly celebration dedicated to commemorating the many achievements and accomplishments of the Black community throughout history. This blog will discuss what Black History Month is and why it is important to celebrate it as it gives an opportunity to honor the achievements of black people, especially in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
The stories of prominent figures such as Katherine Johnson, George Washington Carver, Dr. Mae Jemison, and many others who have been able to break new ground in their professions will be presented. Moreover, we will touch upon how these advancements contribute to STEM education as well as the valuable lessons that can be learned during this commemorative month.
What Is Black History Month and Why Is It Celebrated?
Known as a special month for recognizing the contributions of remarkable black heroes and heroines in history, Black History Month starts every February in the United States. It was first observed in 1926 when Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History founded “Negro History Week”. Woodson picked the second week of February, as it had the birthdays of two historical figures in American black history, Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass.
In 1976, during the American Bicentennial, this celebration was extended to the whole month of February and has since officially become Black History Month. It is meant to set aside a dedicated time to reflect on the very important contributions that Black people have made toward shaping the nation, despite systemic challenges and discrimination.
There are other reasons why Black History Month is important apart from the understanding of historical achievements. It is also a very welcome and appropriate period for all ages to appreciate the hardships, achievements and resilience of the African American people through the years. In connection with these issues, Black History Month enhances one’s historical understanding of the United States, while appreciating the value of the myriad diverse experiences that are part of the history of the country.
Pioneers in STEM Education
Katherine Johnson
Katherine Johnson was an extraordinary mathematician and a key figure at NASA during its peak, especially during the Space Race. Many missions, including John Glenn’s orbital flight around the Earth, depended on her calculations. Despite societal limitations, the astrodynamics analysis techniques developed by Johnson allowed astronauts to safely navigate space, and hence, she conquered both gender and racial barriers in science. Her great deeds in mathematics have been portrayed in the film “Hidden Figures.”
George Washington Carver
George Washington Carver was an innovative agricultural scientist and inventor whose work significantly altered the practices of farming in the United States, emphasizing the importance of agriculture in sustainable development. He developed several crop rotation methods to replenish depleted soil to maintain favorable conditions for sustainable agriculture. He also discovered hundreds of uses for peanuts, sweet potatoes, and many other crops. This has greatly contributed to agricultural innovation and improvement in the economic lives of many farmers. It is for this reason that Carver’s commitment to education and innovation made him a hero in STEM and underlined ingenuity and perseverance.
Dr. Mae Jemison
She is an astronaut, physician, and engineer who established a historic milestone as the first African American woman in space. In 1992, she flew aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour on the STS-47 mission. Jemison’s remarkable career has moved well beyond these NASA successes and continues with her science education advocacy and diversity work to foster greater inclusion in STEM fields. She continues to inspire hundreds of thousands of young people, especially girls and minorities, to pursue careers in science and technology.
Dr. Percy Julian
Dr. Percy Julian was a pioneering chemist whose contributions earned him several medical and industrial breakthroughs. Overcoming considerable obstacles because of his race, Julian’s hard work resulted in the synthesis of significant steroids such as cortisone, which became critical in treating arthritis and inflammation. Throughout his career, Julian enhanced the chemical synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds, fundamentally transforming the business of modern medicine by introducing even the most restricted treatment regimes to all. Julian’s legacy stands as a testament to the power of determination and the need for representation in scientific research.
Mark Dean
Mark Dean is a prominent computer scientist and engineer who has made remarkable breakthroughs in computer technology. He was part of the team that designed the IBM personal computer a major contributor to the first color PC monitor and the universal ISA bus as one of those who holds three of the original nine PC patents filed by IBM, Dean’s inventive creations can be seen in the computers we use today. His contribution to computer engineering, in particular, lays bare the significant role of Black technology practitioners in the modern day.
Dr. Valerie Thomas
Dr. Valerie Thomas, a physicist and inventor, developed the illusion transmitter, where an image is produced in 3D. She also worked at NASA as a data analyst and project manager when Landsat was the world’s first satellite to send images from space. Some of her work at NASA was the base upon which further satellite technology and remote sensing were made possible. Because of Dr. Thomas’ commitment to STEM education and outreach, hundreds of thousands of pupils have turned to career options in science and technology. She is a role model who has left a legacy for generations to come in the fields of science and technology.
Dr. George Carruthers
The late Dr. George Carruthers was a great astrophysicist and an inventive creator whose contribution to space science was nothing short of revolutionary. He developed a moon observatory, a device known as the Far Ultraviolet Camera / Spectrograph, which was carried on board Apollo 16 in 1972, the first of its kind. This device was revolutionary in the sense that it enabled astronomers to take pictures of the Earth’s encircling atmosphere and distant cosmic entities by the use of ultraviolet rays. This information was important in expanding the reach and understanding of the universe and deep space. Indeed, Dr Carruther’s deeds have molded the contemporary practice of astronomy and space history.
Dr. Lonnie Johnson
Dr. Lonnie Johnson is an innovative engineer and inventor. Other than being the brain behind the Super Soaker water guns, a very popular toy in the world, he has significantly shaped contributions to aerospace engineering. His work has involved collaboration at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, contributing to the Galileo mission to Jupiter and the Mars Observer project, among other things. His fundamental research works in energy technology, including advanced batteries and solar cell constructions, are still affecting many other scientific fields.
Dr. Shirley Jackson
Dr. Shirley Jackson possesses a remarkable reputation as a physicist, as her work in theoretical physics has contributed to the progress of various technologies. She has also been a pioneer as the first African American woman to receive a doctorate degree from MIT. Her studies on semiconductors and telecommunications have made possible the touch-tone telephone, the portable fax, and fiber optic cables, among others. Dr. Jackson has been an ardent leader in STEM education and policies, which have motivated a number of people to take up scientific and technological career paths.
Impact on STEM Education
Contributions from black pioneers in STEM are an important influence within the context of STEM foundation and education: they have made diversity, representation, and perseverance ingrained in every aspect of the process. Role models can inspire students of any background to enter science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Innovations thrive within the context of such inclusion, where creativity and the solving of problems flourish.
The biographies and achievements of these Black scientists, engineers, and inventors are incorporated into educational systems to the benefit of the students. This wider representation of people assists in breaking down stereotypes and promotes STEM education in a healthier way. When the diverse contributions to these fields are emphasized by educators, the dreams of students from different backgrounds who may not have otherwise believed in their abilities can be instilled.
But, quite importantly, this is against a background of a strong emphasis on the contribution of Black individuals in the sciences. This will be coupled with the imperative need for equity or equal opportunities for students from all walks of life to access science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education and STEM resources. With regard to initiatives to diversify the number of people entering STEM fields, programs and initiatives are more abundant, with all students exposed to the opportunity of engaging in these fields. Black pioneers in STEM leave an indelible legacy, which continues to serve as a spur for further advancement toward the reparation and refurbishment of a brighter, more inclusive, innovative future.
What Can You Learn From Black History Month?
Black History Month is an amazing learning opportunity for children with respect to the achievements of Black people in any area, even, and especially, STEM. While exploring the stories of Katherine Johnson, George Washington Carver, and Dr. Mae Jemison,, for instance, children clearly understand the value of qualities such as will, imagination, and hard work. These examples indicate that no matter where one comes from, everyone can be great at science and technology.
More importantly, children will be taught how cultural diversity contributes to innovation through offering solutions from different perspectives. Through such achievements, children are encouraged to be open-minded and value every contribution in achieving success. This month serves as a powerful reminder that history is rich with stories of resilience and ingenuity, inspiring the next generation to reach for the stars.
Conclusion
By honoring and celebrating pioneers in STEM during Black History Month, we can celebrate the tremendous achievements of these black pioneers and fill our hearts with appreciation. These stories remind us that diversity can be transformative and set free the potential that every student has. We must continue to sustain inclusive education related to STEM so that the possibilities that young minds can imagine and work in these fields can be more comprehensive and powerful.
FAQs
1. Why is it important to highlight contributions to STEM during Black History Month?
Highlighting contributions to STEM during Black History Month showcases the significant impact of Black innovators, inspiring future generations to pursue STEM careers.
2. Why is Black History Month important for students?
Black History Month is vital for students as it provides role models, teaches the importance of diversity, and fosters a greater understanding of American history.
3. How have Black individuals influenced STEM education?
Black individuals have influenced STEM education by breaking barriers, serving as role models, and driving initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion.
4. What resources are available for Black students interested in STEM?
Resources for Black students interested in STEM include scholarships, mentorship programs, and organizations like the National Society of Black Engineers.
5. Who was the first black woman in STEM?
The first Black woman in STEM to gain widespread recognition is Dr. Mae Jemison, the first African American woman to travel in space.