Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing their central role in U.S. history. Since 1976, every U.S. president has officially designated the month of February as Black History Month. Other countries around the world, including Canada and the United Kingdom, also devote a month to celebrating Black history.
IJ Anyanwu, MSC, MPP
Director, Volunteer Services
I am thrilled and honored to be considered for this project. My name is Ijeoma Anyanwu, and I am from Nigeria. I am fluent in English, Igbo, Yoruba, and French. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Lagos, a Master’s degree in Public Policy from UMass Boston, and a Master’s degree in Leadership from Boston College. I am also working on concluding my Ph.D. in Public Policy from UMass Boston.
I am the director of volunteer services at JFS of Metrowest, a non-profit organization that directly impacts the lives of people in my community. Our mission is to provide vital social, health, and community services to alleviate suffering, enhance lives, and support people in need.
Black History Month is a special time for me. It is an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the contributions of Black people throughout history. Their stories have inspired me to become the person I am today. I celebrate by sharing their stories, reflecting on their legacies, and honoring their memories.
Josiah Ihechukwu
Homemaker
My country of origin is Nigeria which is in the western part of Africa. The languages that I speak are Igbo and English. I have a college degree in Chemical Engineering and worked with several engineering firms before migrating to USA after getting married in 2005. I started my first job in the USA with Jewish Family Services of Metrowest in June 2005 and have been working with them ever since.
I had my second job with Home Depot USA to be able to support my wife who was then starting her nursing career. We have four children and currently we are pastoring The Redeemed Christian Church of God here in Framingham as Lead pastors. We are involved in the Hope Foundation volunteering and community outreaches in Framingham. My favorite quote is from Martin Luther King Jr who said, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to Justice everywhere.”
We celebrate this month, remembering the efforts, Contributions and the pains of injustice to our predecessors. There is still much to be done. I am grateful for all their sacrifice and contribution. Where we are today might not be where we want to be, but we will keep pressing harder until we get there.
We recognize and celebrate IJ, Josiah and all who celebrate Black History Month for who are working to accelerate social, academic, and health equity in our community!