February is Black History Month but it’s not to be celebrated by only a few of us. Without the African Diaspora , America would be quite a different place. American history rests on the backs and shoulders of those who built this country generations ago and for better or worse, left a legacy of hard work and desires for freedom.
Working side by side, our ancestors made this country great. Despite inequality and defeat, they built a lifestyle of promise steeped in a new American tradition which promised freedom and prosperity. Though not everyone was given an equal opportunity to succeed, they maintained hope and spiritual strength. They did succeed, sometimes with help from others and sometimes on their own, but they never gave up.
Inequality still exists today, but if those from the past could find hope and create opportunities despite the dark, hopeless conditions that they faced, then we all can. Despite financial and emotional hardships or physical challenges, we can overcome anything. It all begins with strengthening our faith and knowing that a change will come if we follow a positive course of action. Words without deeds are meaningless, so any great achievement takes sacrifice and hard work. If we keep our eyes on “the prize,” whatever we deem it to be, we will succeed.
Our Black ancestors lived and helped to create the American experience. They are part of our culture and part of our emotional DNA. They are hope and inspiration for all of us. Whether we are Black, White, Native American, Latino, or identify with another culture, we are all in this country facing challenges together, working for liberty and justice—together. America is a cultural patchwork quilt, stitched together with blood, sweat, tears, tradition, spirituality and hope. It is our country. Black History Month belongs to us all.
The video that I share (below) was borrowed from youTube.com.
This project was completed as part of a 9th-grader’s school assignment. Kudos to this proud young American. The video is perfect for celebrating Black History Month. http://www.youtu.be/RaDMSKZVKNY
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