The oppressor has always indoctrinated the weak with his interpretation of the crimes of the strong. - Carter G. Woodson
A version of this post appeared originally in 2014.
This being February, and myself having more than a passing interest in history, I would be remiss if I did not devote at least one post to Black History Month.
Now I could ramble on, as I am wont to do. There are topics a-plenty, all of them interesting, entertaining, enlightening, informative. But I'm not gonna ramble today, because I want to keep the focus tight.
During February, we hear a lot about slavery and the civil rights movement (as well we should). But I don't recall ever seeing much on the founder of the celebration itself. His name was Dr. Carter G. Woodson.
Dr. Woodson has an impressive background. The son of former slaves, he was the oldest of nine. Young Carter had it tough. Growing up on a farm in modest circumstances, he was no stranger to hard work. He did not let his humble beginnings stop him. In fact, he put that work ethic to good use and graduated early from high school. In 1912 Woodson become only the second black man to earn a Ph.D. from Harvard University (the first was W. E. B. DuBois).
He traveled the world. When he returned home, his lifelong goal was to promote the study of black history. Exceptionally intelligent, Woodson wrote several scholarly works with historical or educational themes, including The Mis-Education of the Negro. He encouraged the study and interpretation of black history by founding Black History Week in 1926. It was a hit, could not be confined to only seven days, and since 1976 we have been celebrating the entire month.
Dr. Woodson was heard to express the wish that someday there would be no need for a special month devoted to black history; that recognition of societal contributions to history would be colorblind. I support that sentiment. But I also like celebrating history! So let's do both - recognize contributions by all, celebrate contributions by all. And give props to Dr. Woodson, without whom February might just be that annoying short month when we have to buy cards, flowers, and chocolates, or else.
I will leave you with three things:
You can take a deep dive about Dr. Woodson in this marvelous article on the West Virginia State website.
Who else tears up a little bit every time they hear Fast Car? Here’s the original.
I had a brief intermission between book club books and finally found time to read a couple of authors I have had on my TBR list for ages. I read The Hundred Thousand Kingdoms by N. K. Jemisin, and The Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler. I loved the Jemisin. [insert chef’s kiss here] But I will be honest with you that I did not love the Butler. It was certainly not for lack of her formidable writing skill. I think it was more because it was so dang depressing, and I could easily imagine her alternate reality not being all that alternate. I am well aware them’s fightin’ words. I look forward to discussing this with you if you’ve read these talented authors and have some input for me. Just drop it in the comments.
My YA trilogy is now available. Hope you enjoy it.
Brody Morgan grew up starring in commercials for his dad's mega food corporation. What will Brody do when he discovers what he's really been selling?
Great post Lissa! I didn't know anything about Dr. Woodson.
As I was researching Black History Month, I kept running into this gentleman's accomplishments. Thanks for bringing them to the forefront, Lissa. Maybe someday we won't have set to aside one month of the year to take note of their contributions. There should be no question that Black History is American History. And then yes, February could just be the LOVE month with the promise going forward to spread it around to the other 11.