Tuesday, February 3, 2009

Black History Month To Me

Black History Month is the one period
during the year that allows all Americans
to learn about the accomplishments of
black Americans.
The American tapestry is composed of
people from every country on the globe
and recognizing their collective talents is
the one single trait that makes this
country great. Black people alone were
brought to America for one distinct
purpose and that was slavery.
Since slavery was an economic
decision, the welfare and freedom of
slaves was not a primary concern or
consideration for most Americans.
Blacks were viewed as property to be
used, worked and traded.
The United States is the world leader in
fostering freedom and equal treatment of
all mankind. The foundation of strength
of this nation is rooted in our diversity.
Black History Month reminds us that we
are better than our past. It provides the
passion and motivation for redefining
our purpose of embracing others with
deeper skin tones, speaking with an
unusual sounding dialect or dressing a
little differently.
Black History Month should offer new
insights for some and allow others to tell
of the struggles of a people with a
tarnished past, and how they endured
severe injustices and overcame harsh
realities to become a positive role in
developing this great nation. Black
History Month should illustrate what is
truly good about this country and
provide living examples of our untapped
potential.
Black History Month has evolved from
Negro History Week, started by Dr.
Carter G. Woodson in 1926, and has
evolved into a special period in our
nation's calendar where celebrations
and forums occur to recognize their
many accomplishments. It has only
been in the last twenty years that the
heroic feats and ingenious inventions
made by blacks have become
mainstreamed.
Consequently, many Americans, both
black and white, are still unaware of the
tremendous milestones made by African
Americans.
What does Black History Month mean to
me? Well, it means everything. The
shoulders that we stand on are broad
and wide and provide the foundation of
support for an exciting future inspired
with love and understanding for a people
who are survivors.
During the month of February, allow
yourself to be enlightened by stories of
a people with a colorful past and
promising future.

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