Publisher’s Points to Ponder: The Importance of Black History Month

I want to extend a special thankyou to everyone who contributed to my articles for Black History Month. Although the population of African-American people in Olney is less than 3 percent, I am humbled that you accompanied me on my quest to enlighten our readers about the ones in our community.

It is important to tell those historical stories to keep cultures alive, not just for the African-American race but for all races, ethnicities, and cultures that make up the beautiful landscape we call America.

When we put forth the effort to engage in storytelling with the present and younger generations, we are instinctively giving the nod to our ancestors and all humankind. We are saying, “What you endured yesterday is important to our survival today. The mountains you climbed are our inspiration to climb higher. The giants you slew give us the courage to slay our present-day giants with pride.” Remembering your stories reminds us about our history and our place in the world.

Looking back at the past creates a pure form of self-love that is indescribable. Please continue telling those stories to your children and their children and their children’s children.

My Aunt Everleaner was the storyteller in my family during my childhood. I remember sitting at her feet listening about the adventures of my ancestors. As I listened to her, I was filled with pride and was not afraid to embrace my heritage that includes Native-American, Caucasian, Creole and African.

Share your heritage with us on FB.