Black History month is that time of year where cultural history is once appreciated and celebrated. All education institutions across the world stop the curriculem learning to, learn about the so called ‘Black History’. In school they remind you of slavery in the 1600s or the famous ‘I have a dream’ speech. Martin Luther King Jr. is seen as a Black History icon; the one who had was the catalyst for change for Civil Rights in the USA. There are many other Black activists you can say that have also been a catalyst for change in the afro-carribean society. There is more to black history then what they show you in the mainstream education. However what I have learnt during my time in education, is that if you want to learn more you have to do it for yourslef. In my early years of secondary education had a huge interest in Black History but when I seeked more information from my teachers they couldn’t provide me with anymore information that wasn’t in the ‘curriculem’. That is the main issue within certain education institutions, the fact that students are not given the knowledge outside the curriculem.
‘Black History month’ I put in inverted commas due to the fact that there is no exact definition of Black History month. I’ve always failed to understand the purpose of Black History Month, when searched on the internet it states that “ we can seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history”.
So in reality Black history is a month that we celebrate the ‘neglected accomplishments’ of black people. However, why is it that what black people have accomplished is only appreciated in this one specific month? Where as the accomplishments of others in history is celebrated throughout the year and not in one specific month. The achievements of Winston Churchill and other historic figures are taught, appreciated and celebrated throughout the year. Where as ‘Black History’ is the one that is allocated a specific time to be taught and celebrated.
From a young person who has a passion in my background and cultural history, I personally believe that Black history should be appreciated more than what it is perceived as in society at the moment. Black History is used as a tool to you could say to keep the black community happy and show that they are only partially appreciated. I think that should not be the case and Black History should be looked at then more than just an achievement award for the Black community.
I’m Khai aka Limitless. I am 16 years old, and run my own black history business called Useni meaning, “Tell me”. I am a inspiring journalist, entrepreneur, videographer, photographer and motivational speaker. My inspiration comes from the fact that there is not many young people my age doing what I do; this motivates me to carry on and inspire other young people my age. This will show them that they can be just like me and they are truly Limitless!