Overheard someone the other day at a restaurant say, “Why do ‘they’ need Black History Month? Isn’t that just history? Like why is their history special?” The point was right there and yet light years away. In #DEI work, the work is not to “assist” or “save” marginalized people, but to remove the barriers put into place that prevent them from being seen, celebrated, and supported. Black History is American History, but because of the systemic barriers that Black Americans have faced, many of their accomplishments and experiences were removed from the history books. #BlackHistoryMonth gives us all chance to learn more about that erasure and to advocate that Black History be more incorporated into history curriculum, thus removing the barrier.
I can say with great confidence that most Black people wish the month was not needed in the first place. In that same light, historically marginalized people wish any version of diversity, equity and inclusion discipline was also not needed as well as most just want to work, rest and play ... ... ... ... .... in peace.
Wouldn't it be great if we could start rewriting the history books and incorporate this information all year round (or, I suppose, ironically, un-re-writing the history), so that all American History is taught accurately and inclusively? The accomplishments of African Americans shouldn't only get highlighted in February but be taught as a normal part of our history curriculum year-round. Black History month is great, and it's great these historical figures get highlighted during that month, but we need to stop using textbooks from 30 years ago. (Or, at least that's what they did when I was in school.)
What's scary is that even more history is being erased with this refusal to allow critical race theory to be taught, to denying slavery was the cause of the Civil War, and with certain politicians saying that Black people benefitted from slavery (taught skills and work ethic?!?!) Once again, history is being whitewashed, and that is a very dangerous place for us to be. Continue to do your important work with DEI, Roxie J. Patton!
If you want an example, it wasn't until a few years ago that people really started recognizing Onesimus as the *actual* person who introduced the concept of variolation. Before then, it was attributed to Zabdiel Boylston
All of this!
Employee Engagement Specialist | Change Management | Data-driven Insights | DEIA Champion | Driving employee satisfaction and organizational success through strategic action
9moIf we needed proof of why Black History Month is needed, there it is. I think there's likely a disconnect in the purpose because most of the celebrations are kept at the surface or are simply to provide lip service. Did you say anything in response?