Black History: Who Will Tell Our Story?
February is Black History Month. It’s when we observe the history of African Americans in this nation. This history includes the story of slavery, abolition, contributions, inventions, civil rights, achievements and much more. Sadly, there are some in our nation today who are working hard to either suppress or erase this history altogether. The puzzling question is why would anyone want to erase any part of their own nation’s history. Since black history is woven throughout this nation’s history, it is American history and should be viewed as such.
History informs us of where we have been, how we become who we are, and how to avoid making similar mistakes. History gives us the tools to analyze and explain problems in the past. It positions us to see patterns that might otherwise be invisible in the present – thus providing a crucial perspective for understanding (solving) current and future problems (https//brainly.in).
As noted earlier, there are some in our nation who are working to keep the truth of black history from being taught in school and from being passed down to future generations. An article in Education Week from October 30, 2023 noted that, “Since 2021, at least 18 states have imposed bans or restrictions on teaching topics of race and gender.” Many black books are also being banned. In addition, many offices of diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives are being closed on many public college and university campuses, making it illegal to mandate diversity training, hiring or admissions using federal or state funding (U.S. News and World Report, Aug. 18,2023). The question remains, why? Why are some people afraid for Black History to be taught? Scripture reminds us in Ephesians 6:12, “ For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.
With that being said, my question and concern as an American citizen, African American, parent and educator is, “Who will tell our story?” Again, scripture reminds us of God’s sovereignty and control over all things. Genesis 50:20 says, you planned evil against me but God used those same plans for my good (Message Bible).
The truth is all history matters, including Black history! In scripture, God reminded the Israelites, “Remember the days of old, consider the years of all generations. Ask your father, and he will inform you, your elders, and they will tell you” (Deuteronomy 32:7). History is important to God. His Bible is His story. In His story He included stories about good and bad situations, about righteous and evil people. God wants us to teach our children His story when they are young, not leaving anything out.
Deuteronomy 6:7 says, teach His word when you sit in your house, when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up! If God teaches us about the good and bad, righteous and evil in His story, why shouldn’t we do the same with all of our history in our nation. Jesus is our role model. We are to pattern ourselves after Him, living His way and doing things His way.
God is truth! He wants His people to be well informed of all truths, and not be ignorant, so that we would make wise decisions! Likewise, we should want all citizens, regardless of race, to be well informed of all truths in history, and not be ignorant, so that we as a nation would make wise decisions!
In this month’s Podcast we will focus on Black History and answer the question, “Who will tell our story?" We will share our perspective as we reflect on growing up African American, segregation, education in Rosenwald schools, resourceful teachers, parents who motivated, hopes, dreams and more, all while trusting and remembering the faithfulness of God! Finally, American citizens of all races, parents and educators have a role to play in teaching our children their history.
Food for Today
Psalm 78:3-4 Things that we have heard and known, that our fathers have told us. We will not hide them from their children, but tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the LORD, and his might, and the wonders that he has done.
Click on YouTube Video Below to See St. Paul High - Rosenwald School
Picture Courtesy
Note: Lena attended St. Paul High School and Patricia attended Frederick Douglass Elementary before integration.
Cover Picture: St. Paul High School (Rosenwald School) in Neylandville, Texas courtesy of You Tube.
Cover Picture: Frederick Douglass Elementary School courtesy of Patricia McCurdy.
St. Paul High Video - Courtesy of YouTube
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