Honoring Black History: A Month of Reflection and Celebration at Third Baptist Church
As we step into February, Third Baptist Church of San Francisco proudly joins the national celebration of Black History Month—a time to honor the achievements, resilience, and cultural impact of African Americans throughout history.
The History of Black History Month
The roots of Black History Month trace back nearly a century to Carter G. Woodson, a historian and author who established Negro History Week in 1926. Woodson, recognizing that African American contributions were largely ignored in mainstream history, sought to create a formal space to uplift Black excellence and legacy.
February was chosen for its significance—it is the birth month of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, two pivotal figures in the fight for freedom and justice. Over time, the movement grew, and in 1976, President Gerald Ford expanded the weeklong celebration into a month, urging the nation to "seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history."
Since then, Black History Month has been a powerful period of remembrance, education, and inspiration. Each year, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) selects a theme to focus the national conversation.
The 2025 Theme: African Americans and Labor
This year’s theme, “African Americans and Labor,” highlights the vital role Black workers have played in shaping industries, communities, and the economic foundation of this nation. As we reflect on this theme, we recognize the builders, dreamers, and pioneers who fought against exploitation and injustice—those whose contributions remain underappreciated yet whose impact is undeniable.
Celebrating Unsung Heroes at Third Baptist Church
At Third Baptist Church, we are embracing Black History Month by sharing stories of some of the unsung heroes of African American history, individuals whose names may not appear in every textbook but whose influence has left a lasting imprint.
Among them, we honor our own founder, Eliza Davis, a woman of strength and faith who laid the foundation for Third Baptist Church 172 years ago, creating a space for worship, empowerment, and social change. We will also highlight figures such as Rev. Charles Albert Tindley, one of the pioneers of gospel music, whose compositions not only enriched Black spirituality but also provided the soundtrack for the Civil Rights Movement.
Throughout the month, we will be sharing these and other stories—stories of laborers, educators, spiritual leaders, and activists whose sacrifices and vision have paved the way for generations to come.
Stay Connected and Engaged
We invite our congregation and community to join us in this month-long celebration. Stay tuned to our website as we uplift these incredible stories and reflect on the lessons they offer us today.
As we celebrate Black History Month, let us remember that our history is more than a collection of past events—it is a living, breathing legacy that calls us to action. It is our responsibility to preserve, share, and continue the work of those who came before us.
Let us honor the past, celebrate the present, and commit to shaping a future rooted in justice, equality, and love.