Black History Month has become a time-honored tradition since it was first conceptualized as “Negro History Week” in 1925 by Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLH), and first celebrated in 1926.
In 1976, honoring the heritage of Black Americans became a month-long celebration, officially recognized in the United States by President Gerald R. Ford.
Now more than ever, February is a time to remember the people who have enriched the community with knowledge, pride, and respect. We recognize the contributions, struggles, and history of African Americans, and reflect on the idea that Black History is at the heart of American history.
Welcome to the First GMA INSPIRATION LIST:
Who’s Making Black History Right Now?
Good Morning America and ABC News asked influential Black leaders, celebrities, intellectuals, entrepreneurs, athletes, and more to nominate fellow Black Americans for the list.
Most of these nominations are rising stars on the cusp of becoming household names — whose influence, we believe, will become monumental. They are “hidden figures” doing the work, gaining success and sharing their talent … making Black history right here, right now.
America, meet the next generation of Black excellence.
Tobias Harris Nominates His Dad, Torrel Harris Sr.
As a kid, I remember my father always reinforcing the importance of Black ownership. This was not just a lesson that he preached to his six kids, but one that he lived by example.
My father started his entrepreneurial journey by carving out a niche for Black managers in an industry that was predominantly occupied by white men, representing two Hall of Fame basketball players — George Gervin and Lynette Woodard.
From there, he ventured into the sports apparel industry, becoming the first and only Black-owned company licensed by the NBA and NFL. Although he received many offers, my father refused to give up majority ownership of his company, knowing the real value and meaning of owning something for yourself.
This is why I nominate my father, Torrel Harris Sr. — not only for his own achievements as a Black entrepreneur, but for his lifelong support, mentorship, and empowerment of young Black athletes and Black fathers.
Together with my mother, he raised six kids — all of whom had the opportunity to attend college (five through athletic scholarships). He pushed us to realize our potential and extended that influence to kids in the community.
He started his own AAU teams, sharing what he learned to help other Black parents navigate the complex path to college athletics and scholarships.
Today, he continues his work as a Black owner of his own sports agency, managing not only myself and my siblings but also other key figures in the sports world. His agency has become a hub for empowering and supporting father-athlete dynamics within the Black community.
In a time when the world is beginning to understand the real, systemic barriers that have long prevented Black people — especially Black men — from holding positions of leadership or ownership, I want to recognize the lifelong work my father has done to break through those ceilings.
He has left historical footprints for so many others to follow for years to come.