Black History Month serves as a time to reflect on the legacies, struggles and triumphs of Black people throughout history. It’s also an opportunity to hear personal stories and perspectives on what this month means to individuals. We asked a handful of people to share their thoughts, and here’s what they had to say.
“Black History to me is the legacy that has been left by the Black folks that came before me. There’s a distinct experience to being Black, not just in the U.S., but in any country in the world. While our culture isn’t a monolith and everyone’s an individual, there are some universal experiences that unite us as a people. Black history is the legacy of that universal experience that unites us — our hardships, our struggles, our joys and successes. Those experiences shared by Black folks for decades deserve reverence, respect and celebration, and I take great pride in having the ability to do so.”
– David Hart
“Black History means to me that we are a people of resilience, overcoming and our love for God who is our strength. It means being proud of our heritage and the contributions that our ancestors have made to history. There is so much more that could be said about the importance of knowing our history, so we know how to deal with our future. Finally, Black History represents Justice, Equality and Truth for everyone, not just Black people.”
– Pamela Soward
“My perspective and emotions towards Black History Month have grown throughout the years. When I was a child, I was always amazed by all the ways Black people impacted the world despite the challenges and oppression we faced. As I grew older, I became sort of discouraged by the fact that there were still so many milestones to be reached. Looking in my own field as a graduate student in chemistry, there are still very few people who look like me. Still, I take inspiration from those who have come before me and hope that I can one day leave my own mark.”
– Brian Foster
“Black History to me is a celebration! A designated time where others learn about the greatness of Black people. Growing up in predominantly white spaces, Black History Month gave me pride to celebrate the accomplishments of people that looked like me. That is a light that has never dimmed.”
– Cassaundra Thorpe
“To me, African Americans have a rich history, a past that is present in ourselves everyday. Our ancestors have been a presence in this world since human existence in ways that have determined who we are today. Throughout that history we find ourselves emulating the greatness of many of our past leaders and becoming more committed to advancing change for the mothers and fathers of future generations to come.”
– Comfort Wasikhongo, MFA, BFA
