The history of the United States of America is one of triumph through overcoming hardships. There have been numerous great men and women who have shaped this country, being catalysts for the advancement of this country's status in the world. As a result, this is an undeniable fact: the United States would not have been able to become a world power if it were not for the multitude of ethnicities that have contributed to its greatness. All ethnicities have been important in the nation's history, whether it be African-American, Caucasian, Hispanic, Native American, Asian or any other race one could think of. The present culture seems to trumpet the idea of equality across the board, demanding that it be seen in marriage, gender recognition and the treatment of different nationalities. Are these calls for equality unreasonable? In certain areas, I would say yes. However, I wholeheartedly believe in equal treatment of all people groups. Because of this belief, I cannot possibly believe that this equal treatment is seen in the observance of Black History Month. In fact, not only do I feel that racial equality is not seen in Black History Month, but I am firmly convinced that this month encourages racism, only increasing ill-feelings between African-Americans and other races. Black History Month benefits nobody in the pursuit of racial equality.
A celebration in general of the contributions of African Americans does not seem to be problematic. An issue arises in the nationalized commemoration of Black History Month, with no recognition of the contributions of any other nationality on as nearly a large of a scale. As many people have already argued, Black History Month is racist against all other ethnicities, excluding all others for a month out of the year. Yes, there is something to be said about the importance in celebrating all contributions from all ethnicities. However, the greatest prejudice that arises from this month is not against other races, but against African-Americans.
For a people group that has overcome numerous hardships, to have only a specific month dedicated to a celebration for them is a truly insulting and condescending concept. Having one month dedicated to a specific race seems only to ostracize that people group. African-Americans are not some rare people group to be treated differently than any other ethnicity. They are equals with everyone and should be remembered as such. The contributions of cultures, all cultures, is not something to be thought of for only a certain block of time in the year. All nationalities should be appreciated on a regular basis. The history of African-Americans is not something that is important only during the month of February. The influences of their contributions are seen daily and should be celebrated daily. Even more than this, the contributions of all nationalities should be appreciated and celebrated.
Morgan Freeman said it best: "I don't want a black history month. Black history is American history." Want racial equality? Get rid of Black History Month.
