Editorial
Part 1: The Essence of Black History Month
Contrariwise, what do we have as a tangible? Yes – we need to have this discussion because that is what everyone else has over black people. If we are the poorest, the least educated or even the most incarcerated, then these tangible statistics have an effect on the overall winner vs. loser dynamic vis-à-vis other races. Have things improved since the early 20th Century? Absolutely. However, we cannot deny that there are still villains crushing black heroes everyday. Should we celebrate black history? Yes. Should we recognize black heroes? Yes. But what is the point of glorifying a month within a system that superficially celebrates black people over the many others being noiselessly crushed? Of course, we are comparatively taking the structural argument over the individual or cultural domain. Many black entrepreneurs have conquered their adversaries; many sports personalities have become the figurines in people’s hearts – and many a black person has transcended color lines. Michael Jackson will always be black; Sade will forever rule as the ‘Smooth Operator’ and no one can replace the countless Africans who have made it to the world’s hall of fame.
But what should be done about those black businessmen who cannot do business in Utah simply because they are black? Why are some black families still afraid to drive along certain highways in certain states? Shouldn’t we be outraged that a black child is not as precious as a white child when it comes to public opinion? Is it legitimate for a sitting American president’s citizenship to be challenged three years into his term of office? Why is it necessary for black girls to straighten their hair? And just like that, we are back at the very beginning: Where is the prize for being black? Interestingly, Mr. Simpson is cooling his bottom in jail – a place he rightfully belongs, according to the collective sigh of [color, race and gender transcending] relief. Happy Black History Month, everybody.
Dennis Matanda
Editor – [email protected]
