Why is Black History Important?

As a follower and supporter of the OneRace Movement it is both an honor and privilege to witness a movement that not only honors and acknowledges Black history, but also denounces white supremacy and racial and social injustices. As the struggle continues in many aspects of our current era, I find there is still a great need in society for the education of Black history to be a teachable moment for people of all races and creeds.  

As a Black man, and being a part of such a rich Black history, I value and respect our rich heritage from the struggles, and oppression, our ancestors overcame to the current struggles we are yet to overcome. Understanding and knowing our past, makes future paths clear for all races, not just the Black race. 

As an article in USA Today said about Black History Month: “February marks the start of Black History Month, a federally recognized celebration of the contributions African Americans have made to this country and a time to reflect on the continued struggle for racial justice. Black History Month has become one of the most celebrated cultural heritage months on the calendar, said LaGarrett J. King, an associate professor of social studies education at the University of Missouri.”

The following quotes from great Black Historians speak to the contributions African Americans have made and speak to these changing times: 

1. “Never be limited by other people’s limited imaginations.” —Dr. Mae Jemison, first African-American female astronaut

2. “I refuse to accept the view that mankind is so tragically bound to the starless midnight of racism and war that the bright daybreak of peace and brotherhood can never become a reality…. I believe that unarmed truth and unconditional love will have the final word.”—Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

3. “The cost of liberty is less than the price of repression.” —W.E.B. Du Bois

4. “In recognizing the humanity of our fellow beings, we pay ourselves the highest tribute.” —Thurgood Marshall, first African American U.S. Supreme Court member

5. “Hate is too great a burden to bear. It injures the hater more than it injures the hated.”—Coretta Scott King

6. “Whatever we believe about ourselves and our ability comes true for us.”—Susan L. Taylor, journalist

7. “Defining myself, as opposed to being defined by others, is one of the most difficult challenges I face.”—Carol Moseley-Braun, politician and lawyer

As a Black father, husband, son, and Pastor it is important that I take the time to thank God for our history.  I am also thankful to be a part of our changing history.  To live, teach, and understand Black history is to be taught to love all mankind regardless of their skin color. The Bible teaches one of the greatest commandments in Mark 12:31 is to “love thy neighbor as thyself”.  

In Paul’s first letter to the Corinthian church, he writes: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” ‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭13:4-7‬ ‭

As we stay true to learning and understanding Black history, I believe it is inclusive of staying true to God’s redemptive plan for all mankind.