Feb. 27 — In 1869, John Willis Menard rose from his seat in the chamber of the U.S. Congress to defend his status as the first African American elected to the institution, thus becoming the first Black to address Congress. Alas, he was denied the seat and returned to Florida where he became a school superintendent.

With diversity, equity, and inclusion being threatened at every turn, celebrating Black History Month is more important than ever before. Kicking off each year on February 1, the entire 28 days are dedicated to acknowledging the history and achievements of Black individuals,

As conservatives try to change how history is taught in our schools, here are some Black history facts you should know.