Nighthawk Community,
An educator's main objective is to be a foundation of progress for society. We work to establish groundwork for the future of our communities through younger generations; and we understand that progress comes as a result of recognizing and acknowledging what came before for us.
Black History Month is a reminder to all of us to acknowledge the past; not just for those who identify as Black or African American, but for all who witness the progress of this nation.
The first blood shed in the name of American independence came from a Black man, Crispus Attucks. Our nation’s capital was surveyed by a Black man, Benjamin Banneker, and built with the hands of Black slaves. Our daily lives are teeming with inventions and contributions from Black men and women, both acknowledged, forgotten, and still open for discovery. From the traffic lights we see on the road (Garrett A. Morgan), to the light bulbs that illuminate them (Lewis Latimer); from the blood transfusions that save our loved ones (Dr. Charles Drew), to the forgotten female slaves who were experimented on and later helped the same doctor develop modern day gynecology (Betsy, Anarcha and Lucy); from the words that pushed toward equality for all, to the words we take for granted when talking on a cell phone (Jesse Russell).
These women and men achieved what educators work to lay the foundation for: Progress. When we “celebrate” Black History Month, we should be mindful to not stop our recognition of Black people when calendars turn to March 1, but rather acknowledge how every day of the year is shaped by Black hands that push toward the progression of all people, because, as the saying goes, Black history is American history.
Garrett Hayes
Social Studies Teacher & Black Student Alliance Advisor
Northfield High School
