The United States is more culturally diverse than it has ever been, yet some people still have a difficult time accepting Black History Month.
The preposterous blogs and social media posts began as soon as February ushered itself in on the very first day of the month.
“Black History Month is racist and divisive,” said one blogger.
Another wrote, “Having a month dedicated to African-Americans while ignoring Caucasians is an affront to America’s patriotism.”
Then there was this social media post by a Hispanic female: “Why are we focusing so much attention of Black history?” she asked. “Shouldn’t we be more concerned with the trouble they seem to be causing throughout our country?”
Umm, perhaps she isn’t aware of Hispanic Heritage Month, even though she is Hispanic.
But before all of those comments I just referenced, there was the one made by the beautiful, yet intellectually inept, Stacey Dash — a Black woman.
“If we don’t want segregation, then we need to get rid of channels like BET and the BET Awards and the (NAACP) Image Awards, where you are only awarded if you are Black. If it were the other way around we would be up in arms. It’s a double standard. Just like there shouldn’t be a Black History Month. You know, we’re Americans, period. That’s it.”
Dash and anyone else who opposes Black History Month are certainly entitled to their opinions. And while their opinions may differ from mine or yours, we should respect their perspectives. However, like countless others, Dash has it all wrong. Unfortunately, she has made Black History Month a divisive entity because during the 29 days, most people focus on the accomplishments of American Blacks. Sure, we know the history of African descendants in this country and how we were enslaved, oppressed and disrespected for generations. However, most Blacks I know choose to use February as a month to enlighten one another and the general public on positive things about Blacks — things like mentioning the first Black inventor, or Blacks who have made tremendous strides in sports, medicine, law, etc.
I view Black History Month as a celebratory month in which we acknowledge our past through honest and educational lessons that reflect our history as a people, while still highlighting the positive attributes of Blacks. Black History Month is about being proud of who we are, which can institute a sense of fulfillment and accomplishment in each one of us. To me, Black history is about reflection and self-love. It’s a time to remember the ills of the past, honor those who came before us and champion a brighter future.
Black History Month is also about respect. Unfortunately, Dash and others like her fail to respect a culture that has been on the tail end of oppression and unjust treatment for hundreds of years. We often hear the phrase, “Respect is earned, not given.” Well, Blacks in this country have earned the respect we so rightfully deserve. And since America is so diverse, it is time we earnestly practice inclusiveness. We must also respect our differences while embracing our similarities. It is time for us to truly be united within the great United States of America.
And as I close, let me be clear. I am not only an advocate for Black History Month, I am also an advocate for Hispanic Heritage Month, Women’s History Month, Diabetes Awareness Month and any other month, week or day dedicated to education and awareness. Only positive things result in such enlightenment.
Speaking of enlightenment, the Recorder celebrates Black history throughout the year. The newspaper continuously strives to enlighten and empower all people, but specifically African-Americans. Documenting history is an important and necessary task. Our current staff, as well as the others that came before throughout the paper’s 121-year history, is dedicated to preserving the history of our people while continually honoring this publication’s legacy. Show your appreciation of the Recorder during Black History Month by supporting the paper in some capacity. We have competitive advertising rates and very affordable subscription packages.
Give our office a call at (317) 924-5143 or subscribe on our website.
