By: Aubrey H.
Black History Month is a time to recognize and honor the achievements, struggles, and contributions of African Americans throughout history. For many years, these contributions were ignored or minimized, even though they played a significant role in shaping the United States. From overcoming the injustice of slavery to leading movements for civil rights and equality, Black Americans have shown resilience, creativity, and determination. Learning about Black history is essential not only to understand the past, but also to better understand the society we live in today. On February 5th, I interviewed all the social studies teachers at YMS to learn what they know about Black History Month and why they think it's essential.
Starting strong with Mr. Hohn in 6th grade. Mr. Hohn said that "the idea of the movement started back in the mid-1920s by Carter Woodsen, as well as other organizations, such as the study of African American History. I know initially it was more of a week designated for Black Americans until it eventually bloomed on college campuses during the civil rights era. Gerald Ford eventually recognized it on a federal level in 1902, and Black History Month started to take on the form of what we think of it now, today. I think Black History Month is extremely important to celebrate because I think we need to recognize the efforts of Black Americans, such as leaders, activists, and role models, throughout our country's history. Its an opportunity for all of us to acknowledge the fight against slavery, segregation, racism while also celebrating resilience and progress. Black History Month, however, is not just about recognizing the past; it's about understanding the present and learning how to shape a better future. If we forget history and our past, then we will also forget how to take the right steps forward."
Moving forward to Ms. Stanosheck from 6th grade as well. Ms. Stanosheck started with…" I have a mug in my classroom that says, "Don't make me repeat myself - History." This is a play on the common idea that history repeats itself. I'd like to state that it doesn't necessarily have to be true. If we teach about the terrible things that happened in the past, hopefully students will grow up to be citizens that don't allow such atrocities to happen again. Unfortunately, the history of black Americans is that of slavery and segregation. Those things must be taught to keep them from happening again."
These are excellent answers so far for 6th grade. Moving on to our 7th-grade teachers, we have Mrs. Blaha and Mr. Huber.
First from 7th grade is Mrs. Blaha. Mrs. Blaha exclaimed that…" I think Black History Month is essential to the study of history. The history of African Americans was widely left out of the narrative of United States history. Black History Month celebrates the accomplishments of people with African ancestry and recognizes the roles of the ethnicity throughout American history. Studying history from all perspectives helps us to fully understand historical events and how those events shaped the world we live in today.”
Now, Mr. Huber teaches 7th and 8th-grade social studies. Mr. Huber said, "Black History Month is an important cultural experience that is celebrated in the United States and a few other countries. If my memory serves me, it started as a weeklong celebration in its origin and then was expanded later on. I think it is important to celebrate the many cultures of the United States, and the impacts they have made on our society. I often think about being in the profession of Education, and a quote from Frederick Douglas often comes to mind. The quote states, “It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.”
Now, last but not least, our 8th-grade social studies teacher. Mr. Savey.
Mr. Savey exclaimed that "I feel that it is very important to learn about Black History Month in my classroom because it recognizes the achievements and contributions of Black Americans that have often been overlooked in traditional history. It helps provide a more complete and accurate understanding of American History by acknowledging both the struggles and successes of Black individuals. Black History Month honors resilience, inspires future generations, and reminds us that Black History is an essential part of American History."
Black History Month is more than just something we celebrate in February; it's a time to remember the bravery, strength, and achievements of African Americans throughout history. This year is extra special because it marks 100 years since it first began as Negro History Week in 1926, started by Carter G. Woodson. What began as just one week has grown into a whole month that is recognized across the country. As the teachers at YMS shared, learning about Black history helps us understand the struggles people faced in the past and the progress that has been made. It reminds us why equality and fairness are so important. By learning about and honoring Black history, we can make sure these important stories are never forgotten and continue working toward a better future for everyone.
