Beginning in 1996, U.S. presidents have formally issued annual proclamations recognizing Black History Month, reaffirming the federal government’s commitment to honoring the achievements, history, and contributions of African Americans. These proclamations build on decades of presidential support for Black History Month and continue a tradition of national recognition through the Executive Branch.

President Bill Clinton presents the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Rosa Parks, 1996. Rosa Parks received the nation’s highest civilian honor during a White House ceremony, the same year U.S. presidents began issuing annual proclamations recognizing Black History Month. White House photograph, 1996 (Clinton Presidential Library)