As a white individual, I recognize that my understanding of the struggles faced by the Black community is inherently limited. While I have experienced marginalization in other forms, I acknowledge that the systemic oppression and historical injustices endured by Black Americans are distinct and deeply rooted in the foundations of this nation. This awareness fuels my commitment to supporting and uplifting marginalized communities, particularly during Black History Month.
Why Black History Month Matters
Black History Month, observed every February in the United States, honors the resilience, culture, and contributions of Black Americans. Historian Carter G. Woodson established Negro History Week in 1926, which later expanded to a month-long observance in 1976 (Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, n.d.). It serves as a vital period of reflection on the pivotal roles that Black individuals have played in shaping the country, often in the face of systemic oppression.
Throughout history, Black Americans have endured slavery, segregation, and racial violence. From the Jim Crow era to modern-day systemic discrimination in education, healthcare, and the justice system, the ongoing struggle for equality necessitates dedicated time to recognize these challenges and celebrate the achievements of Black individuals (U.S. National Archives, n.d.).
The Unreciprocated Support of Black Communities
Historically, Black Americans have championed justice and equity for other marginalized groups, often serving as the backbone of progressive movements. The Civil Rights Movement set the stage for future struggles, including LGBTQ+ and women’s rights. However, when Black communities seek similar advocacy in return, the same level of support is often absent. This disparity underscores the necessity of sustained allyship beyond performative gestures.
The Fallacy of a ‘White History Month’
Some argue that if there is a Black History Month, there should also be a White History Month. This notion disregards the fact that mainstream history overwhelmingly highlights white figures while erasing or minimizing the contributions of people of color (Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, n.d.). Given the historical role of white colonialism in genocide, slavery, and systemic oppression, the idea of celebrating white history separately is not only unnecessary but also offensive.
Honoring Black Excellence
Black Americans have made immeasurable contributions across all fields. Frederick Douglass fought for abolition and human rights. Harriet Tubman risked her life leading enslaved people to freedom. W.E.B. Du Bois pioneered civil rights activism and intellectual discourse. Madam C.J. Walker became a self-made millionaire, empowering Black women through entrepreneurship. Langston Hughes gave voice to Black America through poetry. Thurgood Marshall dismantled segregation in schools as the first Black Supreme Court Justice.
Rosa Parks ignited a movement by refusing to give up her seat. Martin Luther King Jr. led the fight for civil rights through nonviolent protest. Maya Angelou shaped literature and activism with her storytelling. Jackie Robinson shattered racial barriers in sports. Shirley Chisholm paved the way for Black women in politics. James Baldwin challenged America’s conscience on race. Malcolm X empowered Black communities through self-determination.
More recently, Barack Obama’s presidency signaled historic progress, while Katherine Johnson’s mathematical genius propelled NASA forward. Aretha Franklin became the Queen of Soul, and John Lewis dedicated his life to civil rights. Serena Williams dominated the tennis world, and Ta-Nehisi Coates continues shaping conversations about race and systemic injustice.
The Ongoing Responsibility of White Allies
Acknowledging Black history should extend beyond February. As someone who grew up in the Catholic Church and once considered the seminary, I understand how deeply institutions shape worldviews. My departure from the Church stemmed from recognizing its historical corruption and oppression. Similarly, America’s history of racial injustice must be confronted with honesty and action.
It is not enough to recognize Black history for one month a year. White individuals must work to dismantle systemic racism, amplify Black voices, and challenge the erasure of Black contributions in education and media. This includes supporting Black businesses, engaging with Black literature, and advocating for policies that address racial disparities.
Black History Month is not just about commemoration—it is a call to action. By honoring and uplifting Black history, we move closer to a future of true equity and justice.
References
Bryant, H. (2020). The heritage: Black athletes, a divided America, and the politics of patriotism. Beacon Press.
Coates, T. (2015). Between the world and me. Spiegel & Grau.
Gates, H. L. (2019). The Black church: This is our story, this is our song. Penguin Books.
Lewis, J. (2017). March: Book three. Top Shelf Productions.
Marable, M. (2011). Malcolm X: A life of reinvention. Viking.
Remnick, D. (2010). The bridge: The life and rise of Barack Obama. Knopf.
Shetterly, M. L. (2016). Hidden figures: The American dream and the untold story of the Black women mathematicians who helped win the space race. HarperCollins.
Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. (n.d.). The importance of Black History Month. Retrieved from https://nmaahc.si.edu/
U.S. National Archives. (n.d.). African American history. Retrieved from https://www.archives.gov/research/african-americans
Gemma Ortwerth 
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