By Carina George
February brings us many holidays, but has a deeper meaning for people of African descent. Black History Month marks a time where everyone can embrace and celebrate differences of African Americans, whose accomplishments are often disregarded. In this world where there are already so many problems, we should not let diversity pull us apart, but instead strengthen us.
Elizabeth Burley, a sophomore at Guyer high school recalls the importance of celebrating Black History Month, saying that throughout American history, people of African descent have been suppressed. “ It’s ok to take one month out of the entire year to recognize us for who we are,” she stated. Black History month has a different meaning for all of us, but for Elizabeth, she views this as a reminder to love herself and her skin.
A countless number of African American heroes have played a part in helping the fight for freedom. A small fraction of these people include Martin Luther King Jr., Fedrick Douglas, Malcom X, and Robert Smalls. Robert Smalls saved many lives, seizing a confederate ship during the Civil War and rescuing men, women, and children passengers from slavery. With what knowledge we have now on the significant contributions these individuals made to history, it is unarguable that society must recognize and celebrate those who saved and changed the lives of many people.
Not only men, but black women too, have played an important part in history. When asked about the importance of black women in history, Elizabeth responds, “I believe black women in history have paved a way for black women today. They showed us we are powerful, beautiful and we can do anything we put our mind to and someone telling us we can’t isn’t holding us back.” A few examples of black women who have helped shape our world today are Rosa Parks, Harriet Tubman, Coretta Scott King, Katherine Johnson, and Ruby Bridges, who was the first African American that went to an all-white elementary school in the south.
Surprisingly, Black History Month wasn’t officially recognized until the year of 1976, when President Gerald R. Ford addressed the public, telling them to, “Seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.” Today, there are many different ways to spread awareness on Black History Month, such as social media, clothing, posters, and conversations. Bringing attention to Black History Month is necessary for people all around the world to know their ancestors’ history.
