Where's the Unity?

A little bit of Dutch. A portion of Scotch-Irish. A tad German, and a smidge of Cherokee. I guess I’m what you call a down right mutt. My heritage is scattered and thinned down. My history is vague and distant to me. There’s never been much attention focused on the different histories of my ancestors, except what I have learned in school. Right now we’re in the middle of Black History month. After seeing all the promotion for it I began to wonder – what about my history?

Many today question whether or not we should still celebrate Black History month. To me, Black History month is a month well-served. African-Americans need to know the adversities their ancestors have endured, the triumphs accomplished and all the stories that their ancestors have to tell. As do the rest of the nation. Dedicating a month and ensuring public awareness is a great way to keep it all alive. The question is, what about the rest of our heritages?

There are probably not too many people that are aware that November is National American Indian Month. Or that European Heritage Month is in April. And probably very few people know that October is German-American Heritage month. What I want to know is where are the commercials in November reminding us that it is National American Indian Month? Where are the banners on the internet or national recognition in schools?

Black History month is extremely well recognized throughout the nation. I think it’s great. However, we all need to be aware of the history of the many diverse heritages that make up our country and helped create this country. All of our ancestors have been through struggles and victories. Each heritage has its own story to tell and lessons to be learned. For those reasons we should continue to celebrate Black History Month, yet we should also start focusing on promoting the different months dedicated to different heritages. If we give equal attention to all heritages, then knowledge and appreciation of our pasts can be embraced. Differences can be more understood. And once you have understanding, the goal of unity is one step closer.