Black History Month

This post was written by TNG contributor Craig.

With the installation of the first black president of the United States, and the ascension of Michael Steele as the chairman of the GOP, many people think that Black History Month is a tad old-fashioned. It conjures up memories of earnest reports of George Washington Carver and his magic peanuts. Harriet and Rosa and Martin are now apart of the fabric of American history. I’ve heard pundits on both sides claim that racism is officially over and there is no need to celebrate Black History as a separate (but equal) part of the American story.

I say we’re not quite out of the woods yet, particularly as it pertains to racial issues in the gay community, as demonstrated by recent Prop 8 discussions, or the segregation that goes on in DC’s bars. Black History Month should be celebrated, because, who doesn’t like celebrations? I intend to blog about gay and lesbian African American issues for the rest of this month in honor of the month, illuminating this important group. I encourage other members of the TNG community to contribute stories, ideas, and perspectives around Black History Month.