Feb. 27 — In 1869, John Willis Menard rose from his seat in the chamber of the U.S. Congress to defend his status as the first African American elected to the institution, thus becoming the first Black to address Congress. Alas, he was denied the seat and returned to Florida where he became a school superintendent.

With diversity, equity, and inclusion being threatened at every turn, celebrating Black History Month is more important than ever before. Kicking off each year on February 1, the entire 28 days are dedicated to acknowledging the history and achievements of Black individuals,

February is Black History Month, a time the country highlights and celebrates the accomplishments of Black Americans. And the fact that Black history is part of America's history is important for all Americans to know,