Summary
Joseph Smith, Autism Connection of PA Trustee, takes time out of his incredibly busy schedule to write about why Black History Month is important beyond the month of February. Joe is an accomplished professional photographer, and is employed at his local library and Giant Eagle.
This month, we celebrate Black History. It is a time to remember the innovation and accomplishments of trailblazers in the United States. A lot of people are inquiring about why Black History Month is important. Here are some reasons from my point of view.
- All of American history needs to be learned regardless of skin hue. There is too much division in this country. As a result, people of my hue are not getting recognition for the inventions and accomplishments they have made.
- Studying Black History reminds us of the struggles of our ancestors so that we can better understand what we are going through and what they went through.
- It opens us up to more issues that need to be discussed. We live in a critical age where we need to have uncomfortable conversations about race and disability.
- We can make a difference by learning about race in our society. By learning Black History, we can better use Theory of Mind by being more sensitive to the needs of everyone.
- The most important part of all is that Black History can’t be relegated to just one month. There are so many individuals breaking barriers every minute that need to be recognized.
Black History Month is canonical to American History. By studying Black History, we can obtain knowledge that can prevent us from repeating deleterious events. Together we can break barriers.
Joseph Smith
Autism Connection of PA Trustee; Giant Eagle employee, and Professional Photographer