The significance of Black History Month

Editor: The month of February has been designated as “Black History Month” to epitomize the historical achievements of our black ancestors and how their achievements impact on the black race.

So, for example, the marvelous works of the late great human rights activist and civil rights leader Martin Luther King (Jr) should not go unnoticed. {{more}}

Succes­sive generations should be apprised of his sacrifice, daring and commitment to racial unity. He used peaceful methods of protest, such as marches and boycotts to persuade government leaders to alter draconian laws in the USA.

Another black figure of international prominence was Rosa Parks of American origin. In 1955, this heroine was arrested for violating a city law that required black people to give up their seats if white passengers were standing. Her refusal to give up her seat resulted in her arrest. Her self-assertiveness and firm resistance to the draconian legislation of white American society catapulted her into the spotlight as a heroine.

Here, in the Caribbean, Marcus “Mosiah” Garvey, of Jamaican stock, played a crucial role by educating the black international community on its social worth and also its capabilities to achieve great things. His clarion call for the black man to cultivate pride in himself was overwhelmingly successful. His legacies too, should be drawn to the attention of posterity.

Right here in St Vincent and the Grenadines, it is an imperative that we remember two black tribunes of the people, namely George Augustus Mc Intosh and Ebenezer Theodore Joshua, both of whom played paternal roles as trade unionist and politician respectively. They served the masses well, always responding favourably to their bread and butter needs, resulting from their socially disadvantaged position. For the benefit of historical education, the primary and secondary schools in SVG should, at this juncture, be engaged in discussions on the significance of Black History Month.

Patmos Richards