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Publishers Commentary by Wallace J. Allen IV
There would be no reason to teach Black History if the history taught in America was truly America’s history; however, American history, as it is taught, is America’s glorification of White people. Black History is acknowledged as information not only untold, but often denied and purposefully hidden by White society in general and European based political entities in specific. From the false religious interpretations justifying the enslavement of Africans to the present-day denial of institutional based systematic racism; we can conclude that if truth is important, teaching Black History is necessary! We are confronted today with the governor of Florida perpetuating a racist theory by wallowing in the sloppy racist concept that teaching the truth about the history of Black People will make white children feel guilty, and thus should not be taught! I say that denying truth should not be considered as comforting!
The fact that American history as taught does not accurately depict the pain and anguish of enslavement and its denial of basic human needs and human rights, to the enslaved, is undeniable… That fact is the justification of why Black History must be taught! Why are there Black and white American Legions, Black and white medical associations, Black and white lawyer associations, Black and white fraternities and sororities? The short answer is that the white organizations denied entry to Blacks.
America is a living organ that has not only a potential for life but also like all living things, has a potential for death! Any entity that denies its past is existing as a lie! The past only becomes the past when it is acknowledged! When the past is regarded and treated like a dirty secret, it requires all who keep it to become liars! Existing as a liar, running from the truth, is, in my opinion, not living! America needs to tell her truth if she is to live!
I do not regard uninformed or misinformed people as liars. Those that know better are the only ones responsible for doing better! Those who know the truth are responsible for telling the truth!
Why is there a Black History Month?
Please study and explore the history of Black people in and beyond the American experience. Ask the questions! Seek the answers! Think critically! Tell and be the truth!
