The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) has announced ‘African Americans and Labor’ as the theme for Black History Month 2025. This theme aims to highlight the significant contributions of Black individuals to the labor force throughout history.
Historical Context of Black History Month
ASALH emphasizes that work has been central to Black history and culture, from the agricultural labor of enslaved Africans to debates among Black educators on vocational training. The organization states, “Black people’s work has been transformational throughout the U.S., Africa, and the Diaspora.” This theme encourages reflection on how various forms of labor have shaped Black experiences over time.
The year 2025 also marks the 100th anniversary of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters and Maids, the first Black union to receive a charter in the American Federation of Labor. Founded by labor organizer and civil rights activist A. Philip Randolph, this union played a pivotal role in advocating for better working conditions and fair wages for Black workers. Randolph’s efforts were instrumental in combating economic and social injustices faced by African Americans in the labor force.
Contemporary Reflections
In recent years, discussions about labor have expanded to include the impact of technology and systemic inequalities on Black workers. Dedrick Asante-Muhammad, president of the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies, reflects on the progress and challenges faced by African Americans. He notes that while political representation has increased, economic disparities persist. Asante-Muhammad emphasizes the need for coalition-building across racial and ethnic lines to address shared socio-economic issues.
The theme ‘African Americans and Labor’ also resonates with current events, as diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in the workforce face challenges. In his second term, President Donald Trump has signed executive orders eliminating DEI programs from private companies with federal contracts. This has led companies like Target, Walmart, and Lowe’s to roll back their DEI initiatives, raising concerns about the future of workplace diversity and inclusion.
As Black History Month 2025 approaches, various institutions are organizing events to honor the theme. The Oliver Art Center in Frankfort, for instance, is hosting “Piece Work: An Exhibition of Contemporary Gee’s Bend Quilts” from February 14 through March 22. This exhibition showcases hand-stitched quilts by prominent Gee’s Bend quiltmakers, celebrating the artistic labor and cultural heritage of African American communities.
By focusing on ‘African Americans and Labor,’ Black History Month 2025 aims to shed light on the multifaceted roles that Black individuals have played in shaping the labor landscape. This theme encourages a deeper understanding of the historical and contemporary challenges and triumphs experienced by African Americans in the workforce.