About ASALH




Established on September 9, 1915 by Dr. Carter G. Woodson, we are the Founders of Black History Month and carry forth the work of our founder, the Father of Black History.

We continue his legacy of speaking a fundamental truth to the world--that Africans and peoples of African descent are makers of history and co-workers in what W. E. B. Du Bois called, "The Kingdom of Culture." ASALH's mission is to create and disseminate knowledge about Black History, to be, in short, the nexus between the Ivory Tower and the global public. We labor in the service of Blacks and all humanity.

Learn more about ASALH's history here | Learn more about ASALH's Leadership

Mission
The mission of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) is to promote, research, preserve, interpret and disseminate information about Black life, history and culture to the global community.

Vision
The vision of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History is to be the premier Black Heritage learned society with a strong network of national and international branches and partners whose diverse and inclusive membership will continue the Woodson legacy.

Structure
The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) is headquartered in Washington, D.C., temporarily on the campus of Howard University. The Association operates as local, state, and international branches promoting greater knowledge of African American history through a program of education, research, and publishing.

Activities
• Establish Annual Black History Theme
• Publish Annual Black History Theme Learning Resource Package
• Sponsor annual Black History Kick-Off Events
• Host Annual Convention and Black History Month Luncheon
• Establish, nurture and grow ASALH Branches, including campus-based branches & youth guilds.
• Manage professional Speaker’s Bureau
• Establish national and local Partnerships
• Host Essay Contest for undergraduate and graduate students
• Promote oral, public and local history projects
• Commemorate the birth of our founder, Dr. Carter G. Woodson