Does Black History Month still matter? What does Black History Month mean to students and faculty?

We ventured into the halls of Bethel to learn more and discovered that not only does this month matter to our community, but that many see it as especially important in today’s current climate. 

When asked if they celebrated Black History Month, most students responded affirmatively.

“Black History Month means to me remembering what our ancestors have done for us,” Honesty Williams concluded.

Some students honor Black History Month by taking time to reflect on their culture more.

“[I celebrate by] waking up every day and living,” Jeremiah, a junior shared. Grace, another junior, added, “ [I celebrate by] going to Black historical events.” 

Others spend more time talking with family members about their experiences.

“I think it means a lot to me and to my family,” Garry Preston observed. “Because people like us never had a lot of opportunities to be ourselves.”

Different people have different answers, but they share one thing in common: the importance of remembering the ancestors that gave us the rights we have today. They feel Black excellence needs recognition now more than ever, especially as the current federal administration challenges diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. 

“I don’t think it’s right logically and just in general [to end Black History Month],” said Honesty Williams. “

The current federal administration has declared that Black History Month is safe, but many in our community wonder how long that will last.

“I feel like it’s dehumanizing to try and come for our culture, and you know who we are as a people,” Gary Preston insisted. “These months were created to recognize and shed light on minorities.”