EDITORIAL: Celebrating Black History Month

Published 9:00 am Saturday, February 3, 2024

As we turn the calendar to February, so begins the annual observance of African Americans’ contributions to American history as part of Black History Month.

The observance dates back to the 1920s and Dr. Carter G. Woodson, who desired to establish a celebration of achievements by African Americans and recognize their contributions in the larger context, acknowledging their central role in our nation’s history.

Some of us view Black History Month as a gift to its subjects rather than a gift to all of us. But the observance points us toward people and occurrences that may have been lost to history for some audience members. It also steers younger generations toward their potential and what we can all become.

This month reminds us of where we’ve come and what we can do.

Black History Month is a time to celebrate the accomplishments of Black individuals in various fields. From trailblazing leaders and activists to groundbreaking artists, scientists, and athletes, their achievements have shaped both Black history and global history. It provides an opportunity to acknowledge the significant contributions that Black communities have made to society.

In an era of growing contempt for diversity and inclusion efforts, additional platforms for informed history are always good. Toward that end, Black History Month allows us to explore and learn about the struggles and triumphs of Black communities, offering a chance for individuals to expand their knowledge, challenge stereotypes and foster a more nuanced understanding of the complexities of history.

Their stories and their examples of reaping the rewards of hard work and dedication will likely lay the foundation for others who may chart their own paths to success through their shining examples.

It is also an opportunity for us to reflect on the lives and history of not only of national figures but of local changemakers as well.

Imagine for a moment how the landscape of Milledgeville and Baldwin County would be changed if it were not for leaders such as the Rev. Wilkes Flagg, educator Sallie Ellis Davis or Geraldine Dennis, a trailblazer in the law enforcement community, Dr. B. J. Simmons, Milledgeville’s first African-American physician. Or how about Denette Odom Jackson, the first black woman to serve on the Milledgeville City Council, or Oscar Davis, the first African-American Baldwin County Commissioner?

Their stories are woven into the fabric of Baldwin County.

We encourage our readers and community to embrace celebrations and history programs and to talk to young people — all young people regardless of race — about the contributions made by these and other notable Americans who have made our nation great.

History is made every day and there are numerous firsts with regard to African-Americans and their contributions to the country and the globe.

It is part of our shared American history.