This week, in recognition of Black History Month, we asked readers their thoughts on the proposed bipartisan African American History Act bill, introduced to Congress once again by Democratic co-sponsors, U.S. Rep. Jamaal Bowman (NY-16) and U.S. Sen. Corey Booker (NJ) as reported, and which, if passed, would invest $10 million over the next 5 years to promote and support education programs dedicated to African American history.

 

“I think they should sign this legislation with the hope that all Black and brown communities will also have their stories told. Truth be told, as a Puerto Rican-American, our story has not ended, and the exploits have only hurt us as a people on an island that everyone wants a piece of since 1898, and we as a people and culture are still being crucified. When will it stop?”

Esther Pagan,

Former Tremont resident, now living in Bushkill, PA

“The re-introduction of the African American History Act has my unwavering support since our ancestors contributed significantly to the establishment of this nation and still do. American history is Black history. The United States must be transparent about how it got to this point of racial injustices, police violence, and the killing of Black and brown people. Our African American communities are being threatened by the rise of nationalist and pro-white supremacy organizations in society and in the government. Therefore, a complete ban on studying Black history must be avoided. What causes their phobias – the apparent truth? Black history education will be available to students across the nation as a result of this act.”

Dr. Marylean Wroten,

Longwood

“I would say it would be a good thing for the African American community. I think it will be a great benefit helping us, not just during Black History Month, but 365 days a year, and it would be a positive inspiration for our people in the community. I think in the broader context it can also enlighten some others, non-Black. I think it’s going to be a good thing for all – Whites, Asians. It gives us a chance to see our lives through other people’s eyes and I think that’s a good thing.”

Bryan Gerard Briggs,

Wakefield

“The injustices that have plagued our nation for years are centered in White fragility, supremacy and the miseducation of youth of color. This is only present to serve one purpose, to be able to control an entire group of people. Knowledge of self and Black love are paramount in elevating African American people to equitability… I wholeheartedly support the bill to restore dignity to our teachings, so that our true history is learned.”

Shanequa Charles,

Fordham Manor

“It’s about more than rights; it’s about humanity. The lack of appreciation for the actual humanity of Black people is a learned behavior that has been indoctrinated into the dominant population for centuries. This is directly connected to the deliberate omissions of Black excellence from curriculum throughout all of academia. Also, to continuously hear so many supposedly enlightened and ‘liberal’ people and pundits allude to Black history being part of, or “inextricably connected to” American history reveals a disconnect even in their ‘support,’ for their language speaks to a separation that shouldn’t exist.”

Wallace St. Clair,

Claremont Village