February marks Black History Month in America.
When I was a wee one, we would study the usual: Martin Luther King Jr, Harriet Tubman, Frederick Douglass. Then around middle school this education tapered off and in high school it seemed only the militant would make a fuss about this occasion. America became a country that tried to embrace ALL cultures, but never embraced any.
I have argued with many a Parent Teacher Association president about a necessity to teach African American history in the month of February. I was told that ALL cultures have a rich history. Yes, but ALL cultures don’t have over 80 years of celebrating their history. All cultures aren’t systematically disenfranchised as African Americans have been, and all cultures aren’t what I care about. I have a responsibility to the Teen and the Boy to make sure they understand where they came from and what they can do.
Anywho.
While searching for a fact to add, I came across this from a site I use with the Boy to enhance his education. From Enchanted Learning:
Celebrating Black History began in 1926, when Dr. Carter G. Woodson, a Harvard Ph.D., initiated “Negro History Week.” Dr. Woodson, a historian, chose the second week in February because it included the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln. In 1976, the Bicentennial (200th birthday) of the U.S.A., the week-long observance was extended to the entire month of February in order to have enough time for celebratory programs and activities.
Take that, PTA President!
Join me this month as I highlight individuals who have assisted in the framing of this country.
Welcome, msloloknitter!
I do hope you will continue to visit.
I remember when the whole month of February was a dedication to all things African American/Black History. While I do understand that America has grown, taking a look at SOME of today’s young people, I still see the need for more education about our history.
We have come far, but there is so much more room for education.
how far we have come?!
I remember Negro History Week when I was in elementary school. How we have come.