Black History month, the month of February (the shortest in the year), has been designated to highlight the influential impact of black Americans on our society.
I have often wondered why we have seemingly accepted this single acknowledgment instead of demanding a more concrete and structured course in middle and high school.
If you are fortunate enough to attend an HBCU you will more than likely have an opportunity to take a Black History course. I also acknowledge that many PWIs (Predominantly White Institutions) offer courses as well but why isn't this as common as US History, European History and World History in secondary education?
In many social studies books in elementary schools around the world, we have been marginalized to a slave master's opinion of slavery, Dr. King and Rosa Parks.
I really should have the "I Have a Dream" speech memorized because Dr. King is the main historical figure discussed during Black History Month.
Oh but honnaayyy, there are so many more! Black Americans built this country, literally and figuratively. We've contributed not only through music and sports but architecture, inventions, visual arts and so much more.
We are deserving of more acknowledgement than just a month and so I sat down with Joanna Coatney to chat for a few about this topic. We discuss why we think Black History isn't taught in elementary - high school as frequently as World History and European History, especially in PWIs. We also touch on the conversations we have with our children, our white friends and our parents about Black History.
It's an episode you don't want to miss, Live on Spotify and Anchor, Friday February 28th!
Love & Light,
Trese, Unapologetically