GRIFFITH, IN—Black History Month has existed for more than 100 years. It was created by Carter G. Woodson to honor the history, achievements and freedom of African Americans following slavery. However, while progress has been made, racism and forms of modern slavery still exist in the world today.
Black History Month holds deep significance for the African American community, especially because enslavers once attempted to erase Black culture in every way possible. Many African American icons fought for the freedoms that exist today. Before those freedoms were secured, Black people were often afraid to speak up or use their voices because of the severe consequences they faced.
Before Black History Month, the nation observed Negro History Week, first established in 1926. The week-long observance lasted for about 50 years before expanding into Black History Month in 1976. The month was created to recognize and honor African Americans for what they have endured, including slavery, physical abuse, sexual violence and forced labor on breeding farms. Black history has been made for more than 400 years and continues to be made today.
Many leaders of the civil rights movement helped shape where Black Americans are today. Figures such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Harriet Tubman fought for justice, equality and freedom. Today, Black history is taught in schools to help students better understand what African Americans experienced in the past and how those struggles continue to shape the present.
Black history has educated millions of people worldwide about the experiences of African Americans. Freshman Joshua Winn of Griffith High School shared his thoughts on how schools can do more to promote Black History Month.
“Black History Month is a big part of history and freedom, and schools should put up more posters and talk about it more often so students can learn more about it,” Winn said.
Black history is also being made within schools today, as some students experience racism firsthand. These experiences can help students better understand what racism has been like for Black people throughout history and what enslaved people endured.
Slavery has existed for thousands of years, dating back to around 4000 B.C. It became one of the world’s earliest genocides due to the separation of families, high death rates and widespread sexual abuse of women and children. These actions were often used to destroy culture and reduce populations. While slavery is often thought of as a practice of the past, it still exists today in the United States and around the world.
African American culture was heavily rejected in the past and continues to face discrimination today. Because of this, Black History Month can sometimes feel underappreciated. Some people argue that Black History Month should not exist or believe it should have remained Negro History Week. Despite this, many Black Americans view their identity as an honor and a blessing, recognizing the beauty of their culture despite the racism they continue to face.
Racism is still present today and affects people of all races. It is often learned through family, friends and cultural environments. Some people fear losing power to Black individuals and view them as a threat. Racism is a learned behavior, and when it is left unchallenged, people may believe it is acceptable to treat Black people unfairly.
