HISTORY -Anonymous Source

n anonymous source expresses their desire for people to be less hesitant regarding the subject of black people and Black History Month.

“I think people should, if they have questions about black history or any thing like that, feel free to ask people and not be scared,” anonymous said. In 1926, the second week of February was celebrated in schools and communities across the U.S. as Black History Week.* This week was cho sen because Abraham Lincoln and Fredrick Douglass both had birthdays around this time. In the late 1960’s, it became a month-long celebration with a push of the Civil Rights Move ment, and was officially recognized in 1976, by our then-president Gerald Ford.

February is a time when black history and black people are celebrated for all of their ac complishments and achievements that aren’t properly recognized otherwise.

“I think it’s important because I feel like, especially in this country, some people are mad about black people getting recognition, but the month is a time where it is to be recognized,” senior Lily Ba. “It really does show that there’s still stuff like that. Stuff still happens even though people think they’re in a really good community.”

Discrimination and prejudice in school are forbidden by law but can be exhibited in other ways.

“It was really unfortunate, especially watching the way some people reacted. It showed a lot of people’s true colors ... for me it wasn’t too surprising.” Ba said regarding the Blue Valley High vandalism.

Other students shared their thoughts on the situation. A second anonymous source from Blue Valley High expressed their concerns regarding

“I was offended, because the stuff inside was so racist, sexist, and inappropriate ... Honestly I’m kind of ashamed, because the kid went to my

In a poll on the Spotlight Media Instagram, out of 134 students that responded, 41% have seen or experienced racism in the school environment. People reported hearing racial slurs, jokes, and negative assumptions. Lack of diversity may be a contributing factor to the discrimination. According to the Blue Valley West data provided by the registrar, only 35.4% of students are people of color. As much as the district tries to create an inclusive environment for everyone, equality can’t be forced and

Racist ideologies

And

practices expand to be larger than just the Blue Valley School district. Throughout our country’s history, there has been a lack of racial equality

President Joe Biden attempts to address the issue of racism in the United States through his Proclamation on National Black History Month.

“Black culture is American culture, and black stories are essential to the ongoing story of America - our faults, our progress, and our aspirations.” Biden said. “Black Americans can be seen in every part of our society today, strengthening and uplifting all of America.”

While the government works to undo years of prejudice and help create racial equality, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) also works on creating racial equality by researching and promoting the contributions of black people.

Something that the ASALH does to help reach racial equality and justice in our community is deciding the theme of Black History Month each year. In 2021, the theme was The Black Family: representation, identity, and diversity. Last Year, it was Black Health and Wellness.

This year the focus is on challenging racist stereotypes, medical practices, and general discrimination; learning about black history that has been whitewashed and minimized; and driving political action with the theme Black Resistance.

Ways that people may participate in this years Black History Month are:

• Attend a black history or black culture event

• Learn about a lesser-known hero in black history

• Call out racism and prejudice

• Subscribe to black media and black press

• Bring awareness to the prejudice and inequality that black people face

Both Ba and the anonymous source agree that it is important to participate in Black History Month.

“I think Black History Month is really a time to show achievements and things a lot of black people did in the history of America,” anonymous said.

When people make an effort to include everyone, it can create a more welcoming environment.

“It’s just the little things, like not making jokes and not trying to make people feel awkward.” Ba said.

The senior noted that it feels good to be represented and recognized, even in simple ways.

“I like when I go into stores and I see a section of things by black owners or black businesses and stuff like that. I feel like it’s good for some people to get some recognition that it’s hard to get otherwise.” Ba said.

Increasing awareness about black history has an impact.

The US has come a long way towards racial equality, however until everyone is treated with the same amount of respect and dignity the need for awareness continues.

* Due to the sensitivities surrounding the original official name for what was called “Black History Week,” it has been altered. For the original name information go to History.com.

Blue Valley West Ethnic Breakdown