Happy Black History Month, y'all!

Happy Black History Month, y’all! 

I love the second month of the year. January was a test run for me, so my 2022 starts on February 1. I always look forward to this month because it seems like the entire world is uplifting the voices of the Black community, but it’s discomforting to think that this energy is only reserved for 28 days out of the entire year. With the impact that Black folks have on society, I wholeheartedly believe that we should treat every month like it’s February. 

Throughout the next four weeks, I know social media will be flooded with posts, tweets and infographics about Black icons such as MLK, Malcolm X, and Rosa Parks, but what about the Black people in our lives that haven’t reached the “icon” status yet? I want my friends and peers to know they’re excellent without having to wait years to receive their flowers. The work and organizing Black students are doing on UNC’s campus is notable for many different reasons. Whether it’s microaggressions from our classmates or professors getting us confused with the only other Black student in the class, we’re able to push all that aside and thrive in a place that was built by us, but not for us. 

Considering Black people have built this country, it’s interesting to note that Black history has always been separated from the rest of history. Black history IS American history, and should be treated as such. We shouldn’t only have the shortest month of the year to acknowledge the impact Black folks continue to have on society. Our impact can’t be erased, which is why our voices should be amplified all year round. 

So, even after BHM ends and March rolls around, I want us all to be more mindful of how we celebrate Black lives and the impacts they’ve made. If Black folks are the backbone of this country, our impact cannot only be reserved for 28 days.