Pan-African Flag

Flags are an important part of America's identity, bringing people together and creating a sense of dignity and belonging. The Black History Month flag is no exception, standing as a reminder of African American history, the ongoing fight for civil rights, and the pride black people have in their community and identity. Although we celebrate black history throughout February, every black American can proudly wave this powerful ensign year-round to celebrate the beauty and resiliency of the African American dream. 

Celebrate Black History Month with an African American flag from AmericanFlags.com. Featuring vibrant colors, expert craftsmanship, and the highest quality materials, this stunning ensign looks breathtaking atop any flagpole. 

What is the Flag Most Commonly Associated with Black History Month? 

There are many flags designed to honor people of African descent, but the one most commonly associated with Black History Month is the Pan-African Flag. This beautiful ensign was originally created by Marcus Garvey in 1920. 

It features three horizontal stripes of red, black, and green, which were chosen for their ties to both pan-Africanism and black liberation. Interestingly, this flag goes by a few other names, including the African American Heritage Flag, the Black Liberation Flag, the Marcus Garvey Flag, and, of course, the Black History Month Flag. 

Diverse group at a peaceful protest holding a Pan-African flag with red, black, and green stripes, promoting unity and solidarity on monument steps Diverse group at a peaceful protest holding a Pan-African flag with red, black, and green stripes, promoting unity and solidarity on monument steps

History and Background of the Pan-African Flag 

Along with the names above, the Pan-African Flag is also called the UNIA flag. Its history is steeped in symbolism and perseverance. Its creator, Marcus Garvey, was involved in political activism and was a journalist and speaker. He founded the Universal Negro Improvement Association along with other equality initiatives. Garvey created the flag after hearing an anti-black folk song of the time. 

Quickly, the Pan-African flag was adopted by the Black Libertarian movement and symbolized the retaking of power for African Americans across the country. It also was a way to show the legitimacy of black Americans and unify them as a nation after suffering countless atrocities throughout history. Today, the Pan-African flag flies during civil rights events and was a prominent figure during the Black Lives Matter movement. 

What Does the African American Flag Symbolize? 

Garvey chose the colors on the Afro-American flag to represent the painful history of all black Americans.  

The red line depicts the bloodshed of the men and women who were taken from Africa and brought into slavery and subjection. It also touches on the African diaspora and the intense pain it brought. 

The black horizontal line is a nod to the black skin color of African American people. Prominently featuring it in the middle of the flag showed that darker skin should be celebrated and esteemed, not hidden. It also showcases the strength of the black community. 

The bottom green line highlights Africa's fertility and the desire for those torn from their homeland to find a land where they belong. This line shows the belonging black people will always feel with the African continent, a continent full of promise and growth.  

When combined, all three colors symbolize the spirit of the African American people. They are creative, dynamic, and strong, building community from the ashes of bondage and never settling until they are free from societal oppression. 

Impact of the Pan-African Flag on Black History Month 

The Pan-African flag still inspires black Americans throughout the country. As a powerful icon of the civil rights movement, it continues to be a symbol of the further work needed for true equality. While it may have had its beginnings in the U.S.A., this powerful ensign is now used throughout the world. Its colors inspired flags in several newly liberated countries in South Africa like Malawi, Libya, and Kenya. Red, black, and green are also used in the Juneteenth flag and for celebrations like Kwanza. 

Other Flags Associated with Black History Month and Black Liberation

Along with the Pan-African flag, other ensigns signal the unity of the Black community and promote further liberation. 

The Ethiopian Flag 

Along with red, black, and green, yellow is also associated with Pan-Africanism. The flag from Ethiopia is an excellent example. Featuring yellow, red, and green, the Ethiopian flag represents the nation's successful resistance against Italian colocalization on October 11, 1896. A year later, Emperor Menelik II authorized its creation, celebrating the resiliency of the Ethiopian people. 

In the middle of the 20th century, pan-Africanism took root again in the region, leading other countries like Ghana to adopt a similar flag. 

Although the meaning of the colors varies slightly across nations, the spirit remains the same. Fertility, bloodshed, and prosperity all serve as reminders of the collective African heritage that transcends borders and makes the continent so special. 

The Ethiopian Flag  The Ethiopian Flag 

Black Lives Matter Flag 

Black Lives Matter has recently regained popularity, but its roots echo the Pan-African movement. Starting in response to the murder of George Floyd, BLM renewed the call for activism for African-American equality. With the sentiment "Enough is enough," BLM reignited hope in the Pan-African dream. 

The Black Lives Matter flag has become a well-known symbol of this modern-day civil rights movement. It has grown in popularity and is known not only in America but throughout the world. 

The African American U.S.A. Flag 

The African American U.S. Flag is an exact copy of the national flag in Pan-African colors. The white stripes are colored red, while the blue field is green, creating an eye-catching alternative to the traditional ensign. For those seeking to honor their country while still showing their pride and dedication to the honorable Pan-African movement, it offers the perfect answer. 

Celebrate Your Pride with AmericanFlags.com 

AmericanFlags.com is committed to providing top-quality flags that make it easy to show your support for the causes that matter most. We stock a wide variety of national and state flags, along with specialty flags like the African American U.S.A. flag. 

As the top supplier of American-made flags and accessories, when you purchase one of our stunning flags, you can trust it's made to the highest quality standards. From solid brass grommets, reinforced stitching, and ultra-vibrant colors, our flags are built to last the test of time. 

Explore our impressive selection of high-quality products and discover why our customers continue to purchase our flags again and again. Shop today!