Black History Month:
This month is black history month and just like every year there are celebrations, lectures, exhibitions, etc. all on "black history."
What is the real purpose of black history month? I have been wondering this for a while. Its a month to celebrate an often times (present day and historically) marginalized population and I recognize why it is important but as we discuss race and its role in society, I find myself challenging this idea.
What is BLACK history?-- is it just African American history? who should be participating in this historical celebration?
In one of my other classes a girl spoke of how the museum will be hosting a Black History Month exhibit for black artist-- except one white man, BUT HE WAS PART OF THE HARLEM RENISSANCE. --does that give him "honorary black" status? Should his participation require some sort of justification or explanation?
To play devil's advocate?
Would it be appropriate to have WHITE history month? I dont think so. Is this because a group earn their right to celebrate their identity and history through overcoming struggle?
Shouldn't we celebrate the progress we've made and the success of the black community throughout the year? Why have we chosen the month of February to take on this role?
President Obama walks fine line on race, justice
11 years ago
I have engaged the same thoughts about Black History Month before. I don't know how exactly Black History Month came about. I think in some circumstances, it is a legitimate effort to celebrate productive and note-worthy members of cultural society who have been ignored. If it weren't for Black History Month in my high school, I would know absolutely zilch about Black culture (outside of its role in European colonization).
ReplyDeleteHowever, I think the relevant question is, why exactly is it that we need to make a special month to celebrate Black history and culture? Why isn't it a regular and consistently taught part of our curriculum?
As far as the lack of a white history month, I think it's appropriateness is almost a moot point. It seems like every high school class is a white history class. We had whole classes devoted to European lit, European history, American lit and American history (and neither of the American classes featured a whole lot of material on Black culture outside of its role on white America). I think there would be outcry if White History Month was instituted, but rightfully so. The average American knows a lot more about white history than about black history.
I have also wondered about Black History Month's origin and actual meaning. I agree that black history and culture should be taught in schools and not something that is paid attention to one month out of the year. As Clare points out, white history dominates today's curriculums and it is only right that African American history be instituted as well. African Americans have played a significant role in the formation of this country and have been a part of this country for over two centuries. Whether or not black history should be taught in school's is not even a question, in fact Latin American history should be introduced as well.
ReplyDeleteAlthough I feel black history should be included in every school's curriculum on a permanent basis, I also believe that Black History Month is very important to celebrate as well. February brings attention to everything from important historical figures to the history of African American culture. The month long celebration forces Americans to slow down and appreciate important pieces of our country's history and does not allow people to overlook it as if it were just another holiday.