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Why Understanding Black History is a Lifelong Commitment, Not Just a February Tradition
The Importance of Knowing Black History
Did you know that Black History is American History? Yet, despite its foundational role in shaping this nation, it continues to be minimized, rewritten, or outright erased. As Black History Month begins, it is imperative to reflect not just on the past, but on how history is being contested today. From the rollback of affirmative action to the manipulation of terms like "woke," "CRT," and "DEI," efforts to silence Black voices and diminish our contributions are intensifying. And yet, we persist. Because we do not need permission to acknowledge our existence, our history, our achievements, and our people.
My Journey: From Racial Apathy to Racial Awareness
I am a Black woman who once thought she "didn’t see color." I genuinely believed that race was an unnecessary topic of discussion, and that except for a few instances, the world was largely fair. Some of you might find that surprising, given my expertise as a cultural awareness, DEI, and racial equity expert and keynote speaker today. But I wasn’t always this person.
Through historical learning and deep engagement with communities, my perspective shifted. I realized that racial apathy - choosing not to engage with race and history - was itself a privilege and a form of collusion with injustice. This journey is one I’ve written about before, including in my articles We Need to Think Differently About What Racism Is to Stop It and When the Fourth of July Meets Juneteenth.
The Danger of Erasure: Why We Must Stay Vigilant
We are witnessing a ramped up concerted effort to suppress Black history. States like Florida have banned books and revised curricula to diminish the role of slavery, segregation, and systemic racism. The same people who tell us to "move on" from the past are actively ensuring no one learns from it. This is not about education - it’s about power, control, and the erasure of truth.
George Santayana’s famous words ring true: "Those who ignore history are bound to repeat it."
Ironically, Trump recently signed a proclamation for Black History Month, "giving Americans permission" to celebrate Black history while simultaneously championing policies that erase it from public discourse and rescinding Lyndon B. Johnson's 1965 civil rights enforcement executive order. This hypocrisy is staggering, yet strategic and predictable. Throughout history, people in power have often masqueraded as allies while undermining the very causes they claim to support - using Black people and Black struggles as pawns in their political power plays and claiming to have established things that already existed despite their opposition to it.
Learning Black History Is a Commitment, Not a Trend
If you woke up in 2020 realizing how deeply racism is woven into our systems and wanted to be part of the solution, you are not alone. But being an ally is not just about a moment - it’s about sustained action. Understanding history is key to dismantling systemic inequities, both in our communities and in our workplaces. Black history is not just a collection of stories from the past - it is a roadmap for resilience, innovation, and transformation. It is the foundation upon which our modern struggles and victories stand.
Robin DiAngelo, a white educator and expert on racial justice, reminds us that being nice does not end racism - it only shields and reinforces it. When we commit to sustained education, it can shift our paradigm, making the change not only personal but systemic. As our perspectives evolve, so do our institutions, because we begin to truly see the structures that uphold inequality and act to change them - not just for a moment - but as a lifelong commitment. True transformation comes from intentional learning and action - not just in February - but all year round.
Food for Thought
Are we truly committed to learning history, even when it challenges our longheld narratives and sense of self and our society?
Are we open-minded, humble, and courageous enough to embrace discomfort as an opportunity for growth rather than an excuse to disengage and relinquish all responsibility for forging a fairer team, organization, or society?
How are we actively countering the ongoing suppression of Black history in schools, workplaces, and communities?
How do we develop Racial Literacy, Racial Humility, and Racial Stamina to navigate difficult conversations and drive systemic change? (Check out this article on developing these skills for more insight.)
Call to Action: Go Beyond Black History Month
Let’s ensure Black history is not confined to a single month. Grab your lunch or coffee and join me for my interactive virtual lunch & learn, “Beyond Black History: A Personal Journey through Culture, History, Discovery, and Transformation,” on February 20 and 27.
These interactive sessions go beyond the textbooks and mainstream timelines of Black History, to explore the hidden legacies of African and Black contributions to global history and how understanding these stories can inspire lasting change. I’ll share my own journey of rediscovering my heritage and share fresh perspectives on how culture, history, and identity intersect to empower individuals, reduce biases and transform systems.
Why Attend?
✔ Discover a side of Black history you may never have heard before✔ Enhance your cultural awareness through storytelling, humor, and interactive discussion✔ Feel empowered to embrace identity, challenge stereotypes, and drive change
📩 Register now to secure your spot: Registration Link
Let’s honor Black history with knowledge, courage, and action. Together, we can fight back against erasure and ensure that the truth endures.
#BlackHistoryMonth #BeyondBlackHistory #RacialEquity #DEI #TruthMatters #Trump #Anti-DEI #Anti-racism #SocialJustice
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