Jacqueline Crosland

Reporter

February is a month reserved for one of the most interesting and tumultuous times in American history. Though it is meant as a celebration of history and the gains that have been made, Black History Month is a source of controversy for some people. They believe that black history should not be limited to a single month.

Towanda Williams, assistant director of career services, noted a lot of effort goes into emphasizing Black History Month. She wants to know what happens afterwards.

Questions arise for her, such as “When the month is over, what are we doing? How are we engaging African American students and developing them as professionals in the community?”

Williams said she thinks people need to understand the impact their lives have on others. She recommends constant education on hometown heroes and the realization that history occurs over a period of time.

She went on to say she loves all her students and just wants everyone to get recognized for great achievements. Students should be celebrated for working towards a goal.

“Recognition should be done more often,” she said.

Andrew Jones, a communication major, said he thinks there is no need for Black History Month. He said it should be a part of everyday history. He said he feels a lot is being lost because of the limited time given to talk about black history. He said that, from what he has observed, the month mostly celebrates the same people over and over again.

Jones enjoys the history classes available at the W, but African history classes are not pushed as much. He noted that if it is not set apart into one month, students would better understand how much African Americans contributed to society.

Kenneth Durroh, a student assistant, said he thinks that Black History Month should not be limited to February because it limits the history of hundred years of achievements by African Americans.

He feels too much attention is given to some figures, while there were many before that laid the historical foundations. He noted that until African Americans get the same recognition in history, society will be unstable. Black history should be recognized all the time.

“One month is just not enough time,” Durroh said.