The Importance of Black History Month
February is Black History Month, and the need to include black history in the school curriculum has never been more relevant. There is a huge importance of discussing black history in education, as teachers are at the heart of molding students' knowledge. Early exposure to stories of black pioneers not only empowers students’ through positive examples but also helps build awareness that leads to fighting racial justice. By doing this, we grow compassion and further education about histories into students.
In the year 1926, Dr. Carter G. Woodson started “Black History Week,” which eventually became the present day global month-long celebration of Black history in The United States and many other countries. In 2024, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) focused its celebrations on “African Americans in the Arts” as a theme highlighting artistic contributions by Blacks from all walks of life. This annual commemoration originates in February which coincides with President Abraham Lincoln’s Birthday and Abolitionist Frederick Douglas.
According to Kennya Denise Giles, a senior at Virginia Union University “Black History Month is very important to me because our ancestors worked and sacrificed their lives so we could have equality . We still have a long way to go but it’s very important for me to know where I came from so I can continue the work that is unfinished.”
The celebration of Black History Month allows for a greater understanding of African American history with an emphasis on how black Americans contributed significantly towards making America what it is both physically and culturally. For example, the younger generation is not exposed to the events that took place during slavery as well as Civil Rights movements. This is a major reason why we should discuss these events so that people will be educated. Myths can be dispelled through this celebration while acknowledging ongoing struggles which could foster for a more inclusive society.
The effects of this celebration stretch beyond February and it is important that we realize why we celebrate Black History Month. This goes together with other steps towards improving education systems, making them more inclusive and enabling us to acknowledge every bit of American history.
Sources: