Americans celebrate Black History Month during February to honor the contributions of Black Americans. The month transpired from Carter G. Woodson’s idea of Negro History Week, which began in 1926. Black History Month has blossomed 50 years after Negro History Week was established, and today includes local parades, ceremonies and gatherings featuring the work of Black artists, entrepreneurs, politicians and pastors. This year, The Feather will be bringing you stories about local black leaders who have positively impacted Fresno and the Central Valley of California.

During this month the Feather featured five local black leaders in the community. These leaders included:

–Bobby Griffin Jr.

–Dr. Deshunna Monay Ricks 

–Bishop Dewayne “JR” Coleman 

–Nia Marie Hodge 

–Dr. André Stephens

To read last year’s Black History Month spotlight visit: Black History Month spotlight: Simone Biles raises the bar

For more infographics from the Feather visit the infographic  page

To read more from the Feather visit: Black History Month Spotlight: Bobby Griffin Jr. influences local music scene or Black History Month: Dr. André Stephens leads Fresno Pacific University