We've been in African-American History Month for a week and a half now, and I have a nagging question. This is primarily for young black folk, but anyone can consider it.
"What does African-American History Month mean to you in 2013?"
When I was a kid, and even into my early 20s, Black History Month (as it was known then) was so often used as a means to motivate a race of people. Sure, we noticed February was the shortest month of the year ("what, we only get 28 days?"). But, we were at least reminded of achievements of our forebears. Those reminders were shared with us to stir us towards continued striving. Those reminders were meant to show us we could also break barriers, advance society and lift cultural discourse.
Now, I wonder. Do the young think about this in that manner? I guess (guess) the role models for young brothas and sistahs are entertainers and top-tier sports figures, with the occasional high-profile pastor or notorious public figure thrown in the mix. One doesn't have to look back very far in our history to gather information on Bishop So-and-So, DJ This-n-That or basketball player Manny McJump.
I believe there will always be a place for African-American History Month, because as a nation we do a woeful job of incorporating some important facets of history in the collective consciousness. Anglos, Blacks, Latino, Asians among others have all had direct and lasting impact on the growth of this nation. Sadly, the whole story hasn't been captured for all to sample and understand. Until that changes, efforts like African-American History Month can fill some of the gaps.
My concern is, in the attempt to fill some of those gaps, will the intended audience reach out to that heritage? Are today's young people concerned enough to learn from the history, and use that history as a springboard to greater achievement?
I hope so.
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