The Trump White House has issued a proclamation recognizing February as Black History Month around the same time the Defense Department issued guidance declaring “identity months dead.”

Feb. 1 marks the first day of Black History Month, and suddenly the study of the Black experience may feel like an act of defiance.

President Donald Trump will sign a proclamation on Saturday recognizing February as Black History Month, despite his efforts to whittle Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives out of the federal government.

Gerald Ford in 1976 became the first president to issue a message recognizing February as Black History Month. Since then, presidents have made annual proclamations marking the month as a celebration of Black history, culture and education.

Black History Month wasn’t always a monthlong celebration. In February 1926, historian and author Carter G. Woodson created Negro History Week. It was a weeklong celebration in an effort to teach people about African-American history and the contributions of Black people.

Maryland political leaders stepped up their support Saturday for Black History Month in the midst of an onslaught of attacks on diversity initiatives by President Donald Trump. Maryland Gov. Wes Moore,

During the first Trump White House press briefing, Karoline Leavitt indicated the administration intends to honor the month-long observance.

White House Press Secretary Doesn't Confirm Whether Or Not White House Will Continue To Celebrate Black History Month