[Jedi Marksman]

If it wasn't for the fact that many(most?)people were ignorant of the contributions of blacks to American history, Black History Month would not even be necessary. The sad fact is, many people still do not believe or do not realize what pivotal roles blacks and other minorities have played in the building of America.

I wish Black History Month were not necessary. It would demonstrate tha the need for African-Americans to be especially recognized to compensate for their still very glaring exclusion from history was no longer an issue. They would get their rightful mention in our historical texts, but sadly, they do not. As a result, Black History Month is warrented. Here at the University of Arizona the Center for African American Studies made a small museum lined with accomplishments from Blacks in science, academics, military history, social reform, literature, etc. I have lost count of how many times I heard:

"I didn't know that a black man helped invent that. . ."

"Blacks fought in the American Revolution. . .?"

"Some of the most decorated units in our military history were black units. . .?

"I love that guys music, i didn't know he was black. . ."

And it goes on. So, I will say this. The day Black History Month is no longer seen as being needed by society, it will be a great day in America's history.

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