The Importance of Continuing to Teach Black History in Our Public Schools
Whether you are aware of what is going on in the news or not, there is little doubt that you know the importance of history being taught in school. It doesn’t matter if that history is pleasant or not. What matters is that we never forget who we are or where we come from. With the new restrictions on public school, the teaching of Black history is being challenged.
In truth, schools are being told not to teach it. And, if there is one thing that we all know, it is that if we forget where we come from then there is no way for us to know where we are going. It doesn’t matter if DEI is in place or not, Black history should continue to be taught by schools. So, here are 10 reasons that Black history should continue to be taught in school.
- To Acknowledge the Full Scope of American History
Regardless of what some people may think, Black history is an inseparable part of American history. From the establishment of the country to its growth and development, Black individuals have contributed significantly. The transatlantic slave trade, Reconstruction, and the Civil Rights Movement were not isolated events—they shaped the nation’s economic, political, and social structures. Ignoring Black history creates an incomplete narrative and fails to honor the experiences of those who helped build the country. Black history should continue to be taught in public school becasue teaching Black history ensures that students understand the true “American story”.
2. To Foster Cultural Understanding
Teaching Black history in the classroom helps to create opportunities for students to learn about diverse cultures and experiences. By understanding the unique struggles and triumphs of Black communities, students develop empathy and appreciation for others. This knowledge helps break down cultural barriers and fosters a sense of unity. For instance, exploring the Harlem Renaissance not only highlights Black artistic achievements but also showcases how cultural exchanges influenced American society as a whole.
As an African American, I know how isolated our students can feel especially when they are in a setting where they are the minority. By celebrating something that is uniquely their own, they can get to feel like they are part of something special and significant.
3. To Highlight the Contributions of Black Innovators
Why should Black history continue to be taught in the public school? Becasue we are intricately sown into the tapestry of American history, our culture deserves to be included in American history. And, there is no denying it! Black history is filled with stories of innovators who have significantly advanced science, technology, art, and other fields. Figures like George Washington Carver (agricultural science), Katherine Johnson (NASA mathematician), and Garrett Morgan (inventor of the traffic signal) are just a few examples. Highlighting these contributions demonstrates the impact of Black excellence and inspires students of all backgrounds to pursue their goals. It also challenges the misconception that innovation and progress are limited to certain groups.
4. To Combat Racism and Stereotypes
Now more than ever, Black history should continue to be taught in schools. Teaching Black history helps students understand how racism (and, not just against blacks) continues to impact society. By learning about events such as Jim Crow laws, redlining, and mass incarceration, students gain a clearer picture of how prejudice has been embedded in societal structures. This awareness is crucial for dismantling stereotypes and promoting equity. Additionally, discussions about Black leaders like Martin Luther King Jr., Ida B. Wells, and Malcolm X offer examples of how individuals have fought against injustice.
5. To Empower Black Students
Representation matters. It matters for me. It matters for my culturally diverse students, and it matters for you. We are not a separate group of people. We are all one as American citizens.
And, for Black students, seeing their history reflected in the curriculum can be empowering. Learning about the resilience, creativity, and achievements of their ancestors fosters a sense of pride and identity. It reminds Black students that their heritage is rich with strength and determination. Programs like Black History Month celebrations or lessons on the accomplishments of Black trailblazers help affirm their place in the broader narrative of history.
6. To Promote Critical Thinking
Black history often explores complex topics such as inequality, resistance, and social justice. These lessons encourage students to think critically about historical events and their relevance to current issues. For example, analyzing the causes and effects of the Civil Rights Movement helps students connect past struggles to contemporary debates about voting rights, police reform, and economic disparities. This critical lens equips students with the analytical skills needed to engage thoughtfully with the world around them.
Black history should continue to be taught in public school because it can help students to see beyond their own walls. In the famous quote from “To Kill a Mockingbird” given by character Atticus Finch, “You never really know a man until you stand in his shoes and walk around in them” . If for no other reason than this, Black history should continue to be taught in schools.
7. To Recognize the Fight for Civil Rights and Equality
The Civil Rights Movement is one of the most significant chapters in American history. Teaching about this period helps students understand the ongoing struggle for justice and equality. Lessons on Rosa Parks, the Freedom Riders, and the March on Washington illustrate the power of activism and collective action. These stories inspire students~ whether Black or White~to become active participants in their communities and to advocate for fairness and equity in their own lives.
8. To Celebrate Black Culture and Achievements
Black culture has profoundly influenced American and global culture through music, art, literature, and sports. From jazz and hip-hop to the writings of Maya Angelou and the athleticism of Serena Williams, Black achievements deserve recognition and celebration. Teaching Black history highlights these contributions and underscores the creativity and resilience of Black communities.
9. To Educate About Systemic Inequities
Another reason Black history should continue to be taught in school is because Black history provides critical insights into how systemic inequities were created and carried out. Lessons on slavery, segregation, and discriminatory policies like redlining reveal the historical roots of modern disparities in wealth, education, and healthcare. And, this can lead to discussions about finding a solution.
I work in a rural Alabama town, and the devastating effects of segregation can still be seen in the lives of my students. They very mindsets are still reflective of the educational inequities that existed for years in their educational system.
10. To Fulfill Educational Standards of Inclusion
A well-rounded educational program requires diverse perspectives and stories. And, by including Black history in the curriculum, you are exposing your students to inclusive learning experiences. Exposure to a wide range of histories and cultures prepares students for a multicultural world and encourages them to value diversity. This can help to create a school environment where all students feel seen, respected, and valued.
Teaching Black history is essential. There can be no inclusive education without Black history. Black history should continue to be taught in schools. It acknowledges the contributions, struggles, and achievements of Black individuals and communities. It empowers students, combats stereotypes, and promotes cultural understanding, critical thinking, and social justice. By integrating Black history into the curriculum, schools can provide students with the knowledge and skills they need to build a more inclusive and empathetic society.