Black History Month: Its Purpose & My Appreciation for it!

During this month I will be featuring recipes that you guys decide to share with me from your childhood experiences!!!!

Hey guys! Just wanted to check and discuss this important topic and month on my blog. I've had several people reach out and ask if I was going to talk about this major celebration on here, and I said of course! As a young African American female, I've had the privilege of being surrounded and poured into by phenomenal women from various backgrounds, especially by my mother and my aunts. I am grateful for all the lessons they have taught me and the wisdom they have shared through the years.

Black History Month began originally as "Negro History Week". This week was created by Carter G. Woodson in 1926. It became a month long celebration in 1976; the month of February was selected because of the correlation with many notable events that happened historically during this month. Black History Month honors the many contributions made by African Americans who influenced and changed U.S. history for the better. The celebration of this month continues to pay tribute to the generations of African Americans who struggled with my adversities. With all of that being said, I'm extremely proud of my heritage, its richness, and of the ancestors who came before me.

In 2008, America elected its first black president, Barack Obama. Yes, this was major accomplishment, but the election of a black president doesn't erase years of slavery, segregation, and adversity. We are still healing from those things today, and unfortunately in today's current social and political climate (on BOTH sides; democratic & republican) there are still forms of prejudice and inequalities. We as "humans" have to be willing to address these things and use our own privilege to extend new opportunities to others who lack access to education, money, and status. Use your privilege, don't be afraid to speak out when you see injustice. In conclusion, America still has a long way to go when it comes to provide equality and equity to all people, but I've learned throughout my time on this earth to still be filled with HOPE.

Love will conquer all. Let's remember moving forward that America is a melting pot for ALL people, and that's what makes this country what it is! 

P.S. I will also be sharing recipes this month that I feel represent African American culture (i.e. from my own personal experience, NOT anyone else's).