Vicky Clinton For many years, I have appreciated the opportunity to pen this annual column as a tribute to Black History Month, ensuring continuing attention to this vital component of American history and culture and to present and pay homage to notable African-American icons who have defied the odds, paved the way while shattering glass ceilings, and ultimately achieved greatness. The vast tapestry of African-American history forms an intricate design, weaving together good and evil, slavery and freedom, repression and justice, and raises social consciousness through reflections from the past and documents present-day history and history makers. In reflection, history maker Dr. Carter G. Woodson (1875-1950), an African-American educator, historian, administrator, editor, author, and journalist launched a campaign for “Negro History Week,” the second week of February in 1926 promoting African-American extraordinary achievements and worldwide contributions to the broader society which now serves as the catalyst for National Black History Month.