Black History: Celebration as Resistance

Fast forward to present day, the Florida high school students’ eloquent responses to the recent rejection of an Advanced Placement course in African American studies by Gov. Ron DeSantis’ administration reminded me of my previous experiences as a student of color in predominantly all-white academic institutions—specifically, the sparse offering of African American history within the curriculum. The difference for me was that when I was in high school no one in the school’s administration told us we couldn’t have a ceremony highlighting our history. Then again, no one was advocating for one either. Change is not spontaneous. Sometimes it requires a bit of urging.

Chicago is a city of immigrants, and this was constantly celebrated. There were paczkis on Fat Tuesday, and everyone was Irish on St. Patrick’s Day. In addition to the wealth of culture brought by immigrants, there was the notable culture brought to Chicago via the Great Migration from hundreds of thousands of African American migrants fleeing the South. And, as students, we believed this should also be celebrated.

Despite the overt racism we faced in the community, we believed that if we made a sound proposal based on educating the entire student body, it would be accepted. We were inspired by the actions taken by those in the civil rights movement and considered this celebration to be our obligation to those who truly fought to end segregation and improve education for students who were so often marginalized.

A group of us met and planned the event and rehearsed in the school’s auditorium. My talented friend, Monica, choreographed the interpretive dances, curated the songs (a selection of spirituals and gospel) and directed the student singers. Lacking this talent, I was elected to write and present the speech on African American history—a daunting task. I provided a historical view of the accomplishments of African Americans and pointed out the work yet to be done in putting an end to racism and discrimination by noting the wrongful imprisonment of Nelson Mandela and at the speech’s conclusion raised my clenched fist in the symbol of Black power (a move inserted by my mother and practiced repeatedly on my part). Monica led the school in singing, “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” the African American national anthem. It was truly incredible. We received a standing ovation from students and teachers alike. Surprisingly, the administration asked us to present the ceremony again for a smaller group of guests from the community.

So many Americans come from a culture of resistance—where we are called upon to reject false narratives and unashamedly embrace our history. I offer my gratitude and salute students when they stay strong and embrace our complicated history, and I thank the teachers and school staff who provide the space and the grace for students to celebrate this history.