What Black History Month Means to Me

By Shonte Clay-Fulgham

What does Black History mean to me?

Black History, to me, is more than a holiday, a celebration, specific decorations, symbols, or colors.

It’s a small representation of everything sacrificed for me to have opportunities—hope, pride, a chance to be more than a stereotype or a limit that someone else or a system sets for me.

All that my ancestors overcame is a repeating series in the back of my mind. It reminds me that I can’t give up. I can’t afford to make big mistakes. There is a standard beyond mediocrity that those before me have set, and to settle for anything less than great is a waste of their time and sacrifices.

There’s no secret that Black people, as part of the “People of Color” terminology, have extended hurdles and systems to overcome. But those things aren’t naturally discussed anywhere, even though they are major parts of history.

To live in a neighborhood and city, work out in a gym, or even be a part of an administration where I’m the minority, I hesitate to wear things that reveal my history and culture.

Is my “Black is Beautiful” shirt offensive to someone who isn’t Black? Is that a political statement? Is that unprofessional?

My hope is that, as a mom of children who have questions about what Black History means, I can confidently say it means pride in who we are and the footprint we’ll leave behind.

WE are Black History—unlimited, unafraid, set for greatness, and unapologetic about being our full selves.

Less of the deep response—Black History is more than the common historical Black figures, such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Jackie Robinson. It’s also individuals and groups who haven’t received credit for their accomplishments or ideations.

Black Wall Street in Tulsa isn’t a completely positive moment in history, but those moments shape Black History and should be told. Black History is a continuum. There are large- and small-scale individuals and events that have created a foundation, in addition to highlighting the importance of access and opportunity.

“Those that make our history tell the future us what’s possible.” —Shonte C.F.