ORLANDO, Fla. — Thursday marks the first day of Black History Month.
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It honors the contributions of African Americans throughout history.
Black History Month was first celebrated in 1970 and was officially recognized by President Gerald Ford in 1976.
Read: Black History Month: Here is what to know about annual celebration
On Monday, Orlando city leaders will present a Black History Month Proclamation.
Channel 9 is working on several stories about African Americans who have made a major impact on Central Florida.
See: Jackie Robinson statue: MLB, teams will replace burned remnants
We will bring those stories throughout the month.
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