We  are within the first two weeks of Black History Month and some couldn’t be more excited, especially at JCHS where I feel as if Black History isn’t credited enough. Here at JCHS Black History month is almost like bigfoot; in the minds of some it exist and to others it’s just a myth.

Despite our diverse school in which many African Americans attend there is little recognition for it. In the morning before we say the pledge of allegiance a fun fact about Black History is told during the announcements but I think more should be done. For this lack of accreditation the finger should be pointed at U.S. History classes. The purpose of Black History Month is to recognize the culture and heritage of African Americans. Also it is to recognize the accomplishments and accolades of both those who are deceased and still living today.

Teachers are doing American History a disservice by skimming or not putting Black History on a platform or pedestal. In most History curriculums the only time an African American person is recognized for their accomplishments and accolades is during Black History Month. We are being taught by White teachers, with White values about White American History. In most History classes African Americans are shown in a degrading image such as slavery. Despite African Americans fighting for their rights during the civil rights movement this bravery often goes unnoticed, as does the ridiculing and lynching caused by White Americans toward the Blacks.

For one month these people that make up a big part of history are discussed and given the praise that they rightfully deserve. But why should this only happen once a year for one month out of the year?

From peanut butter, blood banks, and traffic signals a lot has been done for U.S. HIstory by blacks. Not only are black people apart of U.S. History but they play some of the biggest roles in daily life of the 21st century and our school should do more to acknowledge these accomplishments.