http://discoverblackheritage.com/
From top left to bottom right: Booker T. Washington, W.E.B. Du Bois, Rosa Parks (with M.L.K. Jr. in the background), Frederick Douglas, Carter G. Woodson
BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Paving the path to multiculturism
By JESSE P. COOPER
Clarion Opinion Editor
February is Black History Month, and this year's theme involves the recognition that multiculturism, as it exists today, has its roots in the struggles of African Americans to have their cultural contributions recognized
by American society. In a year that could bring the election of our first black president, reflecting on the history and social movements of this talented group of people should be an exciting celebration in the advancements of social awareness and diversity.
The main spotlight this year shines bright on Carter G. Woodson, author, editor, publisher and historian. As a Harvard graduate with a PhD in history, he escaped poverty through education. As he preached, so he practiced,
that African Americans should have knowledge of their past in order to intelligently participate in the affairs of our country. He felt very strongly that Black History was a solid foundation
that African Americans could build upon to become “productive citizens of our society. For a better understanding of our future, we must reflect on our past mistakes and triumphs.
History is a bookmark in the pages of life, highlighted to remind us that upon the bravery and grace of a few great people, the pages to come can be a reflection of their shining inspiration.” Woodson empowered African Americans through knowledge and history, maximizing their potential in a world still saturated in ignorance and fear. His renowned book “The Miseducation of the Negro” cautions his readers: "When you control a man's thinking,
you do not have to worry about his actions. You do not have to tell him not to stand here or go yonder. He will find his ‘proper place’ and will stay in it.”
Education is a weapon in the hands of those with agendas and these words are a warning that miseducation of his brothers and sisters will serve as a control to hold them down through oppressively taught compliancy and supposed social niches. Social mind control through incomplete schooling serves as a roadblock in the advancement
of people of color. Dr. Woodson noticed that much of the history of African Americans was either ignored or misrepresented and was an aggressive
promoter of the historical education
of African Americans.
Those who have no eye on the past, march blindly into the future. Neglecting the stories of hardships and tribulations that a people’s ancestors
have fought through triumphantly makes true social awareness (racially and universally) empty words on the tongues of their young. |
