Ah Black History Month it’s that time of the year where everyone remembers Black folks exist…or at least fool us in to thinking that they do. Commercials, media outlets, podcasts, panels, work emails, you see our contributions everywhere.
Now, in the midst of all of this you’ll think hey cool, this is amazing. You may also think: huh, I’m noticing Black folks in certain places, spaces, and industries I don’t really see them in normally? — This isn’t just your imagination. If you’re Black you may think huh, I’m not really seeing people aside from us really celebrate Black History Month — this too isn’t your imagination.
We’re 7 days into the month and it’s time to get real. Are people (non Black folks) really being genuine about supporting us? Is it all just merely being performative? The answer is probably all the above folks. Part of me calls this month for what it is; seasonal diversity. Alternatively, this month feels like “I have a Black friend™”.
Again, for the infinite time, recognizing the achievements of marginalized people doesn’t require a designated month. Marginalized people are making history and or remembering it throughout the year. The bare minimum…
