The annual celebration of Black History Month began in 1915, to commemorate both the anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation and the progress of the community since the abolishment of slavery. This celebration was created and facilitated by University of Chicago alumnus Carter G. Woodson. In February of 1976, President Gerald R. Ford recognized Black History Month as a national celebration, stating that the people must “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”
Legal Progression Since 1915
UC Berkeley School of Law has composed a digital timeline of the laws that have shaped a portion of the African American experience in the United States. The vast majority of these laws were enacted through African American activism and symbolize progression against discrimination for all races. Some that stand out include:
June 25th, 1941: Prohibiting Discrimination in the Defense Industry
Exec.Order No. 8,802, 3 C.F.R. 234, signed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, established the Fair Employment Practice Committee and advocated for African Americans and German and Italian immigrants. This became the first federal action to promote equal opportunity in employment (Randall Winston, Kate Peck, Dean C. Rowan, UC Berkeley School of Law Library).
April 11th, 1968: Fair Housing Act
The Civil Rights Act of 1968 (Titles VIll through IX) was signed into law by President Johnson. The law prohibited discrimination in the sale, rental, and financing of housing based on race, religion, and national origin (Randall Winston. Kate Peck. Dean C. Rowan, UC Berkeley School of Law Library).
February 24th, 2021: George Floyd Justice in Policing Act
In response to the police killings of George Floyd in Minnesota, Breonna Taylor in Kentucky, and other Black Americans, the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act was introduced to combat racial bias, excessive force, and misconduct in policing. The act seeks to improve transparency through data collection and reform police training and policies (Randall Winston, Kate Peck, Dean C. Rowan, UC Berkeley School of Law Library).
Continuance of Progress
While much progress has been made, we would be remiss to not recognize the adversities still faced by members of the African American community. The inclusion and advancement of individuals with diverse backgrounds continues to be core to our mission.
We recognize the career hardships that may be experienced on the basis of race, gender, sexual identity and orientation, military service, age, disability, and other individual differences. Bowman is dedicated to creating a workplace that removes bias, promotes individuality, and advocates for eclectic thought.
To learn more about what Bowman is doing to advance its workplace and the accounting sector, visit our Diversity & inclusion page through the button below!
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