Since 1976, Black History Month has become a fixture in American schools every February. Most people young enough to have been in school during this time can probably recite the broad outlines of the curriculum — one-dimensional lessons on noble Dr. King and scary Malcolm X, time devoted to the Underground Railroad and the freeing of the slaves, a handful of African-American inventors and scientists, Rosa Parks refusing to give up her seat, and the requisite screening of Roots when we were old enough. Yes, as educational as Black History Month has been, it often feels like it's been taught from a pre-approved syllabus that's been forced on the teachers.
Read More...