Black History Month

Once upon a time, when things were simpler and in Minnesota, I had a discussion about the worth of Black History Month with a co-work/friend. We took opposite view points on the subject. Much of his argument stemmed primarily from two points: 1. Why is there no "white history month," and 2. We [America] spend a lot of money on BHM [governmentally]. My arguments primarily stemmed from 1. There could be a white history month, but there doesn't seem to be an audience for it, and 2. Being a part of the majority seems to lend to not needing a month. While we both argued and hand points valid on both sides, neither one of us brought up what my students taught me on February 1st, 2006.

It was the last 5 minutes of my 1st period class. My students were getting ready to leave for their next class and one of them excitedly reminded the class that it was indeed BHM. The whole class was elated. They were smiles and cheers that came from a pride and understanding that neither my co-worker/friend or I had taken into consideration. So, my new answer to "why is there a Black History Month" is the following. I have witnessed a sense of pride, community, and excitement from the youth of Harlem. That is reason enough for me to keep a Black History Month.