Black History Month is celebrated every February in the United States and Canada. Now there are those who don't like that such a commemoration exists. The wonderful actor Morgan Freeman, said: "I don't want a black history month. Black history is American history." Yes, but isn't it wonderful to spotlight different groups of people and highlight their history and heritage? We celebrate LGBT Pride Month, Irish-American Heritage Month, Hispanic Heritage Month, Jewish American Heritage Month, and even Filipino American History Month. I think the more we know about ourselves and the more we know about others, the better we can all live together and get along.
February is then the month for African Americans. It was officially recognized by the US government back in 1976 thanks to President Gerald Ford and has been celebrated ever since. Most school kids have special programs during the month and local libraries, government groups, and museums and other businesses offer various lectures, plays, and presentations to highlight the history of African Americans. I'll bet there are even some events where you live.
Regardless of your own heritage, take some time to look at the history of the great men and women who happen to have been African American. Morgan Freeman is correct that Black history is American history and that is a very good reason for us to know it!
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