Why History of The Black Matters

The black history month started in 1915 to honor the lives of those who fought for emancipation from slavery. To commemorate the lives of popular blacks like Martin jr King and Rosa Parks, and even down to the silent lives of Emmett Till. In this article, we want to see the importance of black history month, why it matters, and what it represents. We will also hear from some NPG members about what black month means to them.

The Importance of Black History Month is

• To instill inclusion of blacks in the society 
• To eradicate prejudice
• To honor and celebrate the achievements of the black

To instill inclusion of the blacks in the society

One of the importance of black history month is not to separate black people but to instill their importance in the community. Everyone has a past, and for children and young ones to have a sense of belonging to their nation, it’s paramount to have a month dedicated to commemorating the history of the blacks. It is a month that teaches the deeds of the blacks, how they conquered slavery and oppression, and how they’re a light in the community. It’s important to show the likes of Barack Obama, who is the first African-American president in the USA, and others like Thurgood Marshall, the first African-American justice appointed to the United States Supreme Court in 1967. This causes an inclusion in the heart of the black young ones that they can be whoever they want to be. That greatness isn’t far-fetched from them.

To eradicate prejudice 

Eradicating prejudice and racism is a long toll, but one that can be achieved and is already being achieved by black history month. Being taught in schools about the importance of black people and how they have contributed to the world’s growth evokes empathy in students and the world at large.

Many people are unaware of the significant contributions that black individuals have made to history, science, art, and society. Education reduces ignorance, which is a root cause of prejudice, and when people celebrate the works of the blacks, it removes prejudice. 

To honor and celebrate the achievement of the black

As stated above, many people do not know the achievements of the black people, and black history month is to reflect on what the blacks have achieved over the years. It’s no small feat to conquer oppression and slavery.

Here are some achievements of the black

Tariye Gbadegesin: She is a Nigerian-American businesswoman and corporate executive who is the chief executive officer of the Climate Investment Funds (CIF), effected from the first of March 2024. It is also notable to say she is the first African woman to serve in this role.

Wally Adeyemo: Wally Adeyemoo is a Nigerian-American Attorney and the first black to hold the position of Deputy Treasury Secretary during President Joe Biden’s tenure.

Adebayo Ogunlesi: Adebayo Ogunlesi is a Nigerian lawyer and investment banker. He was the former head of global investment banking at Credit Suisse First Boston before being promoted to chief client officer and executive vice chairman.

Abbey Wemimo: He is a Co-chair of the Los Angeles County Museum (LACMA) Director Circle. He also founded Esusu, a platform that empowers renters to build credit through rent payments, offers property management analytics, and provides rental assistance for financial stability.

Kelechi Anyadigewu: She is a Nigerian-American entrepreneur, she was nominated for 30 under 30 by Forbes for her distinguished retail site called Zuvaa.

Anie Akpe: Annie Akpe is a business professional and entrepreneur with more than 25 years of experience in the banking industry. She serves on the board of The New York Mortgage Coalition and is the founder of African Women in Tech.

Interviewing Members of NPG on BHM

We also interviewed some members of the Nigerian Professional Community on what BHM means to them, and some shared their opinions below:

Emem Obot