Black History Month? is it Gone or Forgotten?

As I have tried to research and find information in regards to Black History Month Celebrations in Franklin County Virginia I have been unable to locate anything. I am deeply disturbed by the lack of effort on the behalf of this county. In my efforts I thought maybe my county is too small to hold any type of large event. So I proceeded to look for information and any activities in Roanoke, Virginia. To the best of my efforts I still could not find anything that satisfied me.

I must say I have recently taken interest in Black History as I am married to a black man. Most of my knowledge has come from his teachings. Either his first hand experiences or knowledge he has researched and can prove. His efforts have helped me understand some of the things Black Americans have done to make our Nation what it is today.

I thought this was disturbing so I again started to do some research. We share a child together so I have to learn more about who she is and her background in order for me to raise my daughter to the absolute best of my ability. Now that I am rapidly growing angrier and angrier by the minute I have decided to ask my two school age children what they have been discussing in school as far as Black History is concerned. To my surprise I was told by both of my children they have not been told anything about it. "what we know Daddy told us and we learned in Massachusetts." Now my curiosity and anger are getting the absolute best of me. With all of my might I am finding it hard not to freak out on the school systems. My children are enrolled in school to learn. By learn I mean learn about all people, no matter what color they are, language they speak, or religious beliefs. My main problem with Black History Month is, I feel Black History should be taught along side American History. Since Black History is American History. If the school believed as I do I would not be as angry, but I am sure that is not their view on the issue at all. If it was they would have mentioned at least one Black American in their teachings. Please do not mistake this as an accusation of prejudice in Franklin County, but if the shoe fits!

I feel it is extremely important for our children to have complete knowledge of American History, as History is an important part of our lives. Our children are taught about many historical events, but how much was left out. They know about Ben Franklin, but do they know about Dr. Charles Drew? Think about it. How much do you actually know about black history? I personally think most of us regardless of race do not know as much as we should about the real history of our country.

I firmly believe that our schools are not teaching the total truth to our children in many aspects of historical events. This might be because of a certain criteria they have to abide by. I'm not too sure why the would want to with hold great knowledge from our future. By not be completely honest in their teachings they are limiting the children that will one day rule our government. How is this fair to us and the kids?

I feel by the lack of effort to not only teach our children but to celebrate Black History Month is not only a shame but sheer neglect. We as a community need to pull together and celebrate all our forefathers efforts and accomplishments. I will say one thing, next year there will be a celebration of some type for Black History Month in Franklin County. I will do my best to ensure my children can learn about the history of America and appreciate everyone's efforts. If that means we dress up and have a small parade on our street one weekend, then that is what we will do. I will not stand for my children being deprived of knowledge.