Black History Month is essential

When I consider how vast, complex and culturally rich the world is and how nations are intertwined economically, it underscores the importance of having a broad view and understanding of the many cultures that exist.  It matters because thanks to technology participation in E-commerce is available to even the smallest businesses and allows us to reach out across the globe to share our ideas, information, products and services. 

 If you want to interact effectively with others in the global marketplace it is essential to know and understand those you wish to do business with.  Do you need advanced degrees in international commerce –no, but it is in your best interest to know the historical and cultural landscape of a particular country.  It is as important as being aware of any legal or trade policies that may impact what you can or cannot do.

The importance of understanding the history of cultures aboard and its impact on business is obvious to most effective businesspeople.  As we look a little closer to home the need to be aware and sensitive to history and culture may not be that obvious.   We are Americans with a shared culture so many people become uncomfortable with the notion of difference.  Also, reminders of an unpleasant past can also be the cause for a lack of sensitivity.  So why highlight our differences?  Every ethnic or cultural group has its story --both the tragic and the sublime. To acknowledge it is human.

 The observance of Black history month is an opportunity for all to reflect on the contributions and accomplishments of people of the African Diaspora.  The point of this is understanding, information, inspiration and celebration - not pain, remorse and regret.    Anyone who considers himself educated seeks knowledge of history, all history and appreciates that it is essential to have a full understanding of our world to be effective and successful in it.  To downplay, ignore or be fearful of any history is unnecessary and truly unfortunate and I would argue has had a deleterious effect on society because it leads to a lack of understanding and appreciation. And, more importantly, to have a full understanding of our history will hopefully help us to avoid the mistakes of the past.

 In the era where we have had a person of African descent seated in the highest office in our nation, it would appear to be unnecessary to even make this point, but recent events suggest it is still a critical point.

Ultimately, the observance of Black History month can have a great impact on the achievement and academic success for some young people who may not be motivated or feel hopeless. To that end we should continue to highlight the many African American men and women throughout history and those now who are involved in science, technology, engineering and math, as well as those in the arts and business. 

Enjoy the celebration.

Editor’s Note: The Randolph Report is a weekly newsletter on politics, culture, current events and professional development relevant to Black Americans. Subscribe to get free access to the newsletter and website.