Black History Year

One thing I continue to be shocked by is my lack of knowledge of Black History outside of the little that we are taught. We all know Martin Luther King, Rosa Parks and Malcolm X but there are many more experiences, tragedies and activists that deserve our attention.

I was in a class with an educator (Anthony T. Browder) when he revealed this quote:

"You Can't Teach 300,000 years of African History in One Month!"

It resonated with me so deeply because sometimes I feel so out of touch with our history. I remember learning about the Civil Rights Movements and Rosa Parks refusing to give up her seat, but I would beg to believe there is much more than that.

Before African's were brought here on boats what were we? What did we do? What did we look like?

When I think of my "blackness" I most frequently think of Slavery instead of Africa. I want to challenge your thinking in this area. Whether you're black or not you should want the knowledge of the story prior to slavery. What is your history? Where are your roots?

One way I am opening my eyes is by reading a book titled "The Coming" by Daniel Black (Book Review to follow). I recommend expanding your understanding by reading books like this. I am also committed to taking African studies courses and listening to hours and hours of interviews of educators, writers, researchers and activists that share the wealth of knowledge that they've obtained.

As we leave Black History Month, I want to encourage you not to cease your reflecting, studying, researching and expressing your ancestorial history.

Happy Black History Year