Commentary: Trinity University professor Carey Latimore reflects on the people and achievements to celebrate during Black History Month.
Carey Latimore, second from right, is held by his mother Ann, right, and photographed along with his aunt Kimberly and aunt Kerri around 1978.As a kid growing up in rural Virginia, I recognized the complexity of life as a Black person in America but I was, at the same time, blessed with so many heroes, past and present.
But Black history is also about the people who are unknown. Just as the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery is dedicated to soldiers whose remains are still unidentified, Black History Month is an opportunity to celebrate the unknown and unrecognized Black heroes past and present.
Sometimes we would have programs where we play-acted great people of the past. Though we loved our gospel music, during February the music was different. My mother was the choir director and she would play spirituals such asAfrican American spirituals connected us to our past. They inspired us while helping us celebrate our unknown heroes.
But, at the same time, as I walked these same pathways I came to understand the possibilities of life through how those same ancestors seized the limited opportunities provided to them once freed.
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