Mickeyah Johnson
I believe Black history should be celebrated all year, not just during February. Black people have made tremendous contributions to society, and it’s not fair to only focus on them for one month. We should remember their contributions every day because they endured trials and tribulations to shape the world we live in today. It wasn’t easy for them; they were treated harshly, with no mercy. They didn’t have anyone to confide in. They went through sleepless nights and made countless sacrifices, which have had generational impacts. We should constantly remember the brave heroes and heroines who fought for peace, justice, and liberty, not just for 28 days.
As a young Black woman, Black History Month is very important to me because it educates me on what my ancestors endured to ensure I wouldn’t have to face the same struggles. It opened my eyes to the harsh reality of how human beings can treat one another based on skin color. We have a strong history, and we’ve achieved so much that deserves recognition every day. Every day, I see strong Black women striving to make a difference and have a positive impact on the world, which encourages me to work harder and think smarter.
In conclusion, I strongly believe that Black history should be celebrated year-round to remind us of where we come from. This will help us show the world—and anyone who doubts us—who we truly are. Today, I’m proud to see Black individuals making a positive impact in fields such as sports (Usain Bolt), politics (President Obama), and art (Louis Bennett), among many others. This allows us to honor the past and focus on the future, so future generations can see just how resilient we are.
Happy Black History Month from Mickeyah Johnson!
Paris Harris
Black History Month was not always what we know it to be today. There was a time when Black History Month was just a week—known as “Negro History Week.” Celebrated during the second week of February, Carter G. Woodson launched this week with the intention of educating, celebrating, and honoring Black people for their incredible journey, and to remind them of the work still left to be done. In 1976, February was officially recognized as Black History Month, with the same purpose as “Negro History Week”: to send a message to the world that we are still here.
This month is celebrated here at ASE because, as a school, we recognize the rich history of our ancestors and aim to pass it down to the next generation. With a majority Black student body, it is important that we recognize the harsh realities our forefathers faced in order for us to be where we are today. We are living examples of Black excellence, proving to the fighters of the Civil War that their work was not in vain. We continue to tell their stories and fight for equality.
In conclusion, Black History Month should not only be recognized by Black people, but by people of all heritages all over the world. It symbolizes the hard-fought battles our ancestors endured for the privileges we enjoy today. Let us never forget our roots.
Happy Black History Month from Paris!
