On Feb. 7, 1926, historian Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History launched Negro History Week, paving the foundation that later expanded into Black History Month.

Woodson’s goal was to ensure Black contributions were documented, taught and honored year-round.

One hundred years later, the mission still matters and legacy still has a heartbeat. It lives in elders who carried families through decades of change. It lives in the homes where values were protected, dignity was reinforced and faith was practiced daily.

Today, The Great 28 opens with living legacy: Essie Pough, a five-generation matriarch who is a reminder that history isn’t only public milestones. It’s also the everyday leadership that kept families standing.

Black History Month is a reminder. Living legacy is proof.