Although there are strides being made in academia to incorporate multicultural programs and other elements of diversity into the educational system, black related history remains at the periphery of American studies. This assertion is best identified in classes where most discussions are void of the contributions of blacks to the structuring of the American society. Beyond enslavement and the Civil Rights Movement, the contribution of blacks is otherwise overlooked. Such neglect aids in the perpetuation of stereotypical knowledge, which renders blacks as inferior.
Furthermore, such neglect is a tragedy for students of all races and backgrounds as it offers them a linear view of America's colorful past. Until the contributions of blacks are satisfactorily mainstreamed into the basic study of American History, we must take responsibility for providing our youth with supplemental information that will boost their self-esteem and provide them a sure sense of identity through cultural awareness.
Only through education will our chidren learn to be more embracing and accepting of those who are different, and only through education will our children come to understand there is nothing wrong with being different; that in fact, our differences are what makes us individually special.
