Black History Month: Honoring the Past, Building the Future

/

February is Black History Month to celebrate Black leaders' and communities' achievements, resilience, and contributions. It's also a reminder that progress isn't just about looking back—it's about continuing to move forward.

At Hinton Real Estate Group, a Black woman-owned business in Ypsilanti, we're committed to empowering families through homeownership, financial education, and community support. Owning a home isn't just a dream—it's a reality, and we're here to make it happen for you!

Why February? The History Behind Black History Month

Did you know Black History Month started as Negro History Week? It was created in 1926 by Carter G. Woodson, a historian who wanted to ensure Black contributions were recognized and celebrated.

In 1976, it became a month-long celebration. February was chosen because it coincides with the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln, two figures who played key roles in the fight for freedom and equality.

The NAACP: Over a Century of Fighting for Justice

The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) was founded on February 12, 1909, to combat racial violence and systemic oppression.

From challenging segregation in schools (Brown v. Board of Education) to pushing for fair housing laws, the NAACP has led major civil rights movements and continues to advocate for equality today.

Influential Black Leaders to Celebrate This Month

Black history is rich with trailblazers who have shaped civil rights, politics, culture, and economics. Here are just a few leaders to honor this February:

  • Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. – Leader of the Civil Rights Movement, known for his "I Have a Dream" speech.

  • Rosa Parks – "Mother of the Civil Rights Movement," who refused to give up her bus seat.

  • John Lewis – Civil rights activist and long-serving congressman who fought for voting rights.

  • Bayard Rustin – Organizer of the 1963 March on Washington and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.

  • Carter G. Woodson – Founder of Black History Month and the "Father of Black History."

  • Maya Angelou – Award-winning poet, writer, and civil rights activist.

  • Booker T. Washington – Founder of Tuskegee University and advocate for Black education.

  • Toni Morrison – Nobel Prize-winning novelist known for works like Beloved.

  • Barack Obama – First Black President of the United States.

  • Kamala Harris – First Black and South Asian Vice President of the U.S.

  • Shirley Chisholm – First Black woman elected to Congress and first to run for president.

  • Thurgood Marshall – First Black Supreme Court Justice, known for winning Brown v. Board of Education.

  • Madam C.J. Walker – First Black female self-made millionaire known for her beauty empire.

  • Robert F. Smith – Billionaire investor and philanthropist known for paying off Morehouse College student debt.

  • Harriet Tubman – Led hundreds to freedom through the Underground Railroad.

  • Duke Ellington – Jazz pioneer and music legend.

  • Chadwick Boseman – Actor who inspired millions through roles like Black Panther.

This is just a small sample of the countless Black leaders who have made history. Their contributions remind us of the power of perseverance, advocacy, and vision.

Homeownership & Wealth Building: Making It a Reality

Homeownership is one of the biggest ways to build generational wealth and secure financial stability.

We're here to connect you with the resources you need to make homeownership a reality, including:

  • Down Payment Assistance Programs – Get help with upfront costs.

  • Government-Backed Loans – FHA, VA, and USDA loans offer low down payment options.

  • First-Time Buyer Grants – Free money you may not even know exists!

  • Credit & Budget Coaching – We'll help you understand your options and get financially ready.

Owning a home isn't out of reach—it's within your grasp! If you've been thinking about buying but don't know where to start, we've got you covered.

Ways to Celebrate & Support Black History Month

  • Learn & Share – Read books, attend local events, or watch documentaries highlighting Black history.

  • Support Black-Owned Businesses – Shop local and uplift Black entrepreneurs in your community.

  • Get Involved – Volunteer with organizations focused on equity, education, and housing.

  • Advocate for Change – Speak up for policies that promote fair housing and economic justice.

Let's Make Homeownership Happen for You!

Black History Month isn't just about remembering—it's about continuing the legacy of progress. Let's make this the year you take a step toward owning a home, building wealth, and creating a lasting impact for you and your family.