There are a few things I am tired of hearing every February, but let’s call this part one.
I am tired of hearing “Black history is everyday,” or some variation of this every time Black History Month comes around.
While I agree with the sentiment, it is frequently expressed by folks who, for 11 months of the year, never discuss Black history or any campaign they are advocating to educate the masses.
Black History Month wouldn’t have to exist if, instead of regarding it as a footnote, the true history of African Americans was widely taught and not as an elective.
And, perhaps, Black History Month wouldn’t have to exist if we could name other leaders and activists outside of MLK.
Maybe, if we knew about Irene Morgan and the Journey of Reconciliation, we’d better understand Rosa Parks, the Bus Boycott, and the Freedom Riders.
Perhaps, if we understood Nat Turner’s rebellion, we would know why it became unlawful for Blacks to read and write during slavery and use it as a catalyst to promote reading in the African American community.
It is wise for scholars, researchers, and historians dedicated to teaching year-round to use this moment to impress this knowledge on young people who are only thinking about their heritage in February.
As unfortunate as it is (with all of its 28/29 days), most people’s hearts are more open to learning during February than any other month, so let’s use it to our advantage. Perhaps we can spark inspiration where there was none, and people will begin to study Black history outside of this month.
Until then, consider it a doorway by which we can shine some light with almost certainty that people will pay attention, even for a moment.
Imagine you were enslaved on a plantation, and someone approached you with an opportunity to be free. Wouldn’t you take it?
Imagine you were the person to free someone else, but you only have a short window to do it. Wouldn’t you take it?
Just a thought.
Need a resource? Make sure you preorder your copy of Black History Facts coming to you on the 24th!
The PBS Blog 