February is supposed to be the time of year when we take a little time out to celebrate black history. Though we should be knowledgeable about our history throughout the year, February is the time when there is more reflection on our past and high aspirations for our future.
Unfortunately, there seems to be a growing lack of concern for Black History Month. For some reason, the month of February is passing by as just another month.
We are failing to acknowledge the importance of this occasion.
There is no good reason that this month should go by without us, as students, showing appreciation.
There have been a few events held this month on FAMU’s campus that have catered to Black History Month. Earlier this February, the Union Board of Advisors held their Black History Extravaganza in Lee Hall.
Other organizations have made a decent effort to bring the importance of this month to the student’s attention.
Walter Rodney, a late African-Guyanese historian made a statement that is so true. “What we need is confidence in ourselves, so that as African-Americans we can be conscious, united, independent and creative.
A knowledge of African-American achievements in art, education, religion, politics, agriculture, medicine, science and the mining of metals can help us gain the necessary confidence which was removed by slavery and colonialism.”
The process must start with you, Rattlers. Pick up a book on African-American history. Go to an event that is centered around Black History Month, but do something to make yourself more aware of who you are!
“No nation, no race,” observed Dr. Charles Finch of the Morehouse School of Medicine “can face the future unless it knows what it is capable of. This is the function of history.”
The students must decide that they will take it upon themselves to learn more about their history. Understandably, a busy schedule may keep you from pausing and admiring your history, but isn’t your history worth a little of your time?
There are less than two weeks remaining in February.
Inform yourself of something that you may not have known before about black history.
Do not let this month pass and you have done nothing.
Finally Rattlers, there is an old African saying that I hope you will abide by not just in February, but year-round, “Know your history and you will always be wise.”
Peace.
-Antione Davis for the Editorial Board.