Every year during this time, there are documentaries, sitcom specials, festivals, banquets and all sorts of programs dedicated to black history. Since it began as Negro History Week in 1926, the annual observance has been controversial. The importance of it, need for it and even benefit of it have all been questioned. Even now, almost 100 years later, some refuse to observe it.
Some say Black History Month causes division and stirs up negative feelings. Opponents say since we are all Americans, we should focus on American history. Many say blacks should stop dwelling on the past and move on. I have heard some blacks say that in order for blacks to be completely integrated, accepted and appreciated in America, they will have to stop observances such as Black History Month. They say we are Americans, not black Americans, and definitely not African Americans.
Those who support the study of black history and the celebration of BHM say this study is necessary for African Americans, America and the entire world. They say African Americans have been denied their history for so long and told they are less than citizens, less than human even. They say this study is necessary for black self awareness, self esteem, confidence and achievement.
Well, black history is American history and should not be left out, though it very often is left out of text books. Also, since America is the main advocate, example and protector of freedom and democracy in the world, it is very important for Americans and the world to understand how America became free. African American history, from Africa, to slavery, to the Civil Rights Movement to the election of the first black president is an extremely integral part of gaining that freedom and securing this democracy. In fact, there should not only be Black History Month, there should be black history courses taught in high school. Black history should be thoroughly woven into the study of American history and world history.
The Association for the Study of African American Life and History has chosen “African Americans and the Civil War” as the theme for Black History Month 2011. This is the organization that was founded by “the Father of Black History,” Dr. Carter G. Woodson.
BHM should continue to be observed and embraced by all not just blacks. The observance of the holiday itself is not THE problem part of the problem is the beliefs of hardline blacks, whites and individuals of other races who view it as one extreme or the other. We need to continue to teach history not hate. Many of today's youth are not prepared for the raw truth not are they prepared to handle it. We must teach whole history to include Black history but we should refrain from teaching hate
ReplyDeleteUntil we start including the accomplishments of Black folks in the curriculums across the nation, Black History Month is necessary. We are still very
ReplyDeleteeuro-centric in every aspect of the educational process.
World culture classes are taught as democracy in the world rather than dealing with true cultural events from around the world. He/who/is/in/charge/story is still told to the exclusion of others.
Breeze