In 1976, Black History Month was formally created to honor and affirm the importance of Blacks in American history. While we acknowledge it daily, we pause in February to focus on our place in the history of this nation. Black history is American history but is not included as such. We look forward to the day when that will no longer be the case.

In 1619, 405 years ago, 20-plus kidnapped Africans were brought to these shores. The arrival of these enslaved human beings marked the beginning of what became the slave trade. For more than 250 years, millions of human beings of African descent were enslaved and were regarded as three-fifths of a person by the U.S. Constitution.

Our ancestors were stripped of their personhood, name, families, language, religion, culture, position and wealth. They were free labor that helped America become the most powerful economic force in the world. Yet, no apology or reparation has ever come forward. As a result of the determination, hard work, and perseverance against all odds, Black Americans have made valuable and lasting contributions in all aspects of society.

The pandemic of 2021 fully exposed systemic racism in every aspect of American life and throughout our society. The year 2024 promises to be a continuation of much of the same if right-wing political activities are not averted.

Through numerous acts and court rulings, laws that have been brutal in this country were dismantled and the country began to make strides toward actual equality. Needless to say, the effects of these laws continue to be felt across the country even today. We have moved through the periods of equal opportunity, affirmative action, Black Lives Matter, and now the era of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging. The terms have changed, but the fight remains the same. Black people still struggle to achieve the freedom and equality spoken of in the Constitution.

Black history is past, present and future. While commemorating the outstanding legacy and strength of Black people is important, commitment to empowering a successful future is just as critical. Black history is not just something of the past — it is living and alive and it’s being made every single day.

The education system and its impact on our nation’s children must be acknowledged. Teachers are being prevented from discussing anything that creates discomfort, guilt, or anguish for white students. Never mind the discomfort and anguish that’s been thrust upon Black students for centuries.

Thousands of books have been banned nationwide, as the momentum for ignorance is increasing. All students must learn the truth and grow up to be the architects of change based on a new understanding and appreciation of the diversity and richness of all people. As a result, we might, in time, remove the attitudes of white supremacy and white privilege. We are currently experiencing a whitewash of history and must not allow that to happen for our children’s and grandchildren’s sake and for generations yet to be born.

As part of our commemoration of Black History Month, we have again erected a Black History Museum in the Fellowship Hall of New Life Baptist Church in Lacey for the month of February and are making it available for public viewing each Saturday in February from 1 to 4 p.m.

Black History Month celebrates the courage, leadership, contributions, creativity, love and resilience of Black people in America. At the same time, it reminds us of the deep layers and complexity of oppression, privilege and power still present today.

We look forward to the day when American history is so thoroughly inclusive and truthful about all of its citizens that Black History Month will no longer be needed. But for now, we must indulge and do our best to bring light to this exclusion all year long!