“Black History Month originated as “Negro History Week” in 1926, created by historian Carter G. Woodson to highlight the achievements of Black Americans, and was officially designated as a full month in February by President Gerald Ford in 1976; the month was chosen because it coincides with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, both significant figures in the fight against slavery.”
I’d like to highlight and applaud the work done around campus in celebration of Black History Month. This year, it means a lot more, as we are seeing the erasure of such heritage celebrations around the nation. We are seeing the discrediting of those of historically marginalized backgrounds as being less worthy and less qualified because of their race, ethnicity, culture, heritage, migration status, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, and much more. All of this is happening under the claim that DEI, or to clarify, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion work, is racist (against white people); a deliberate misinterpretation of what racism is. They state that the elimination of DEI initiatives will reinstate a system of merit in which the admissions, jobs, and other advantages will go to those that deserve them most. In doing so, they are insinuating that those that fit under the vast umbrella term of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, are somehow less worthy of their positions, and have simply gained their positions due to anything but their qualifications. To take it further, they claim that you took someone else’s spot because of who you are.
To those that feel directly impacted by these acts: Do not give them your pain, even though you feel it. I feel it too. But they do not get to cast a shadow to cover your worth.
These attacks are not new. They’ve been whispered and shouted for years. However, the message delegitimizing us all is coming from the president, and he is forcing all institutions to abandon heritage celebrations and erase and discontinue any DEI work or risk losing any federal funding.
And so, even the mention of Black History Month is now an act of resistance. Any act, any event, any celebration of those being disparaged by the highest office in our nation is now an act of resistance. Existing openly is an act of resistance. So, I invite you to join me in celebrating those of African and Black heritage that have contributed to building and strengthening this country through blood, sweat, and tears.
To those students, faculty and staff members of our community that share this heritage I say, stand tall and hold your head up high. You stand on the shoulders of some incredible human beings that fought for the recognition of your greatness in a world where merit was determined by status and influence.
In Solidarity,
Odalis Hernandez
Diversity Officer, Professional Delegate
UUP Stony Brook West Campus Chapter