While facts about notable accomplishments made by African Americans are important to note and definitely critical to our success as a nation, it often times feels like an attempt to prove our value. So I hesitate to rattle off our accomplishments (training children notwithstanding) as we in my recollection have always been integral to the success of this nation. If we weren’t needed, they never would have forced us to come here in the first place.
However, what is important in my mind to share is the courage it took and still takes to give while being overlooked. It is a universal principle that folks of any color, race or creed can understand. How do you continue to perform at 150% while being treated as if you are not in the room? How do you continue to participate when your input is overlooked, misunderstood or discounted?
It takes character, courage and strength to persevere in the face of adversity. And when it appears that there is no possible way, African-Americans really excel. From slavery to freedom, discrimination to inclusion, disparity to hope, and invisibility to relevance.
So as we think of African-American history and Black History Month, let us remember the courage that it takes to challenge the status quo. And how we can remove the barriers to forward progress and change that are based solely on race and class.
As we recognize the contributions of African-Americans, let’s ensure that we provide hope to the next generation by addressing those barriers. We as a nation will only succeed with input from everyone and policies that consider the impact on everyone.