Black History Month is an important annual observance celebrated every February. Originating in America, it is a time to acknowledge and celebrate historic African-American figures who made great achievements and impacts on society. It is also a time of remembrance and acknowledgement of atrocities and hardships experienced by black people throughout history. The month is also a good time to learn  more about black history and why it is so important. 

In an interview with Junior Malik Bakari, the Vice President of the RHS Debate Club, he expressed his opinion on this topic.  

“I find that black history month and the month of February is an opportunity for people to learn about African American history, especially as it applies to America and America’s past. “But having it condensed into a month isn’t necessarily the best thing to do, because it might get people to feel that the month is all you need, and I don’t think that’s the best course of action.”

In an interview with RHS history teacher, Mrs. Thomas, she expressed her opinion on this topic as well.

“I think it’s important for people to be educated about black history because it’s history,” said Mrs. Thomas. “To look at history from multiple perspectives is crucial to understanding events that have happened in our past and to help us understand the present day as well.”

Black History Month in its early form was known as “negro history week”. It was created by Carter G. Woodson in 1926. Woodson was an African American historian and founder of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH). Today, February is celebrated in recognition of black achievement and to remember and remain aware of the reality of systemic racism.   

Self-education is essential and can help people improve upon themselves. Learning about African American history can help people be kinder and more empathetic. It can also help to strip away prior prejudices and racial biases when people are more knowledgeable about their history. Reading and learning about black history through books and/or social media is an easy and accessible way to self-educate. If more people were better educated and aware of the suffering and injustices imposed upon black people throughout history, maybe our society would be a more loving and peacefully coexisting place. 

You may be wondering: “what can I do to help and positively participate in celebrating Black History Month?” Well there are a number of things we can all do to make real change and support black lives. Donating money to black charities and organizations is an easy yet effective way to help. A few organizations include The Loveland Foundation, Campaign Zero, Black Visions Collective, and the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. These groups work to create a safer and more equal world for African-Americans, and they actively provide aid and support to people in immediate need and victims of racial injustice and violence. Donations of any size from anyone can always help.

Black History Month is a time for not only remembrance; but education and growth. Another important and helpful thing you can do during Black History Month is to listen and learn from the black community. Put your own possible reservations and ego aside and just listen. Try to understand and see the realities of racism and why so many people are outraged and demand change. African American. Fill it with love and compassion, and take some time to think about and maybe learn something new about black history.