Black History Month

Black History Month

Former President Barack Obama said in a 2016 speech, \”Black History Month shouldn’t be treated as though it is somehow separate from our collective American history, or somehow just boiled down to a compilation of greatest hits from the March on Washington, or from some of our sports heroes. There are well-meaning attempts to do that all around us, from classrooms to corporate ad campaigns.  But we know that this should be more than just a commemoration of particular events. It’s about the lived, shared experience of all African Americans, high and low, famous and obscure, and how those experiences have shaped and challenged and ultimately strengthened America. It’s about taking an unvarnished look at the past so we can create a better future. It’s a reminder of where we as a country have been so that we know where we need to go.\”

Yes, Black History Month is about Black people, but it’s for all people. It provides an opportunity for everyone to expand our knowledge and appreciation for the contributions of Black Americans to our collective culture. 

I’d like to challenge you all to test your knowledge of Black History. What do you really know about it? Have you heard of Black Wallstreet? How about the Black scientists and inventors such as George Washington Carver, who discovered alternative farming methods and numerous uses for peanuts? Or Sarah Breedlove Walker, who was a business owner and inventor who gave jobs to thousands of Black women at a time when jobs were scarce. 

There are many things in our history not taught in schools, and fortunately with the internet, we have the ability now to research almost anything if not everything. 

Happy self-education and research!! 

Lillian Kui

Mental Health Student Intern