A PERSONAL LOOK AT BLACK HISTORY MONTH CONTINUED…

I enjoy teaching my children about Black history and the civil rights movement. Growing up, my parents encouraged me to read about my history and to understand the commitment of our civil rights leaders.  A fond memory I have is watching the award-winning documentary, Eyes on the Prize every year with my family.  The documentary covers the major events of the civil rights movement and holds a special place in my heart.

Fast forward many years later–while attending a professional workshop in Los Angeles, I was honored to meet the sister of Henry Hampton, the creator of Eyes on the Prize. She graciously gifted me the 14-episode documentary and now I watch it every year with my children.  Proud to teach my kids about our history–just like my parents did for me.

– Sonya Knight

Black History Month means reflecting on the impact pioneers and leaders of the Black community have had in our society, organizations, and cities. It means celebrating and honoring the legacy these leaders have laid for future generations to follow. It means supporting the advancement of the Black community amidst the racial injustices that continue to happen throughout the U.S. today. It means educating myself further and honoring the fact that we would not be where we are today without the innovative contributions these Black leaders and pioneers have made — and reminding myself daily that Black history cannot be contained to a single month but should be celebrated year-round.

“I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men and women are created equal.”  Martin Luther King, Jr.

-Dedrick Baisden

Black History Month reminds me of the importance of advocating for freedom and equal opportunity. It is a time to appreciate the achievements and dreams so many of us were able to accomplish because of those that came before us. Black History Month isn’t always about what happened in the past. We have people making history every day whether it’s in sports, science, art, health, or education. I look at Black leaders today and I am just as inspired as the historical figures that have left a mark on our culture. It is up to us to make sure that we live up to the legacy and make sure that we continue the moral arc of the universe toward justice.

-Trayce Tyson