How I forgot about Black History Month

Malena Amusa

How I forgot about Black History Month

I almost kicked myself for forgetting today was the first day of Black History Month. Sure I could blame it on the chilling New York weather that seems to freeze my body and mind into inertia. But really, I hadn’t put a single Black History Month Event on my calendar.

Ironically, those of us working to advance racial justice and those working against it have a lot in common. We’re often times too busy working against one another to deeply acknowledge this historical month-long celebration.

At ARC, we’re rapidly preparing for our Facing Race conference in March. And there’s little space to reflect. So I commend those organizations that continue to make Black History a cause to pause. Whether it is through their programming or column writing.

And I hope I can find time between my busy news consumption and production to embrace better the renewing spirit of this month.

Posted at 1:32 PM, Feb 01, 2007 in Permalink | View Comments

Comments

This is the first year of my life that I feel like, to some extent, black history month has been forgotten. There's none of the usual posters and signs reminding us. I think collectively the country has gotten too busy to find February a good cause to pause. It's unfortunate.

Ms. Banks. It's almost mid-black history month and I still haven't taken time to attend an event or read some good black literature. Perhaps the true meaning of black history can be found in the fact that today we're tied down more by our busy work schedules, social calendars, and personal obligations--which I believe is what people fighting for black history month really wanted. They wanted us free--free to be busy enough to forget black history month...

We have to watch out though because I have seen posters and ads for black history and many are are trying to recast this month as an musical celebration of black art as if blackness has little to offer other than song and dance...