What's Your History?

     Many have said that, "Before you can know where you are going, you must know where you have been".  For many, we believe that we know.......but do we really?   February has been Black History Month (officially) since 1976 and since then, many that it was created for believe that the only history that is pertinent to them is what has been taught or captured in POPULAR books.  It is as if the intent behind its creation has driven its core demographic in reverse.  Rather than explore and educate themselves on the rich history of their immediate forefathers, they gravitate towards iconic figures, events that birthed martyrs as well as sensationalized conspiracy theories.  
      I realize that there are some that don't believe that anything further is needed, since in their minds, only a few people made a dent in history.  BUT....there is a wealth of contributions that people of color have made to the world (NOT just the continental United States).  NOT to mention your own PERSONAL black history information.  Have you taken the time to discover the vast historic quests and tales your elders have to offer up? Instead of reading YET another book about MLK or Malcolm X, why not just open up your ears and hear grandma or granddad tell you what is was like when their school desegregated.  Hear how their neighborhoods and families reacted during certain events.
     What does it serve you t know so much about one or two people in black history and know nothing of the history it took to ensure your existence?  Why rely on the bountiful words of another to tell you what happened and why.....we are not that far removed that eye-witnesses are not in our reach.  It is time that we once and for all embody Black History Month by finding out our own history FIRST.   The SECONDARY priority should be challenging one another to uncover a "lesser known" historical figure or event.  
       BEFORE OUR WALKING, TALKING, BREATHING HISTORIANS are no more than pictures and fond memories, we need to take it upon ourselves to learn what they already know so that we may keep our own history ALIVE and unedited.  Honor those that came before by passing on the truth and NOT remaining stuck in an endless loop of what is already known.  Let your own future generations gain pride by knowing what roads were traveled before them and what roads still need to be uncovered.