Every year, Black History Month presents an opportunity for the nation to reflect on the adversity fought through and the achievements accomplished by influential and powerful African-Americans throughout history. Students shared the importance of celebrating Black History Month and how it empowers them.

Senior Inaya Briscoe shared the significance of the opportunity for everyone to learn about black history that Black History Month provides.

“We greet others and learn of the struggle others have dealt with but also how they have prospered.This month goes on past February and it empowers me because it helps me understand that I should be proud of everything about me and my culture,” Briscoe said. Along with Briscoe, junior Tyreke Lumpkin shared how Black History Month allows African-American stereotypes to be broken.

“I’ve learned overtime different cultures and generations have obtained to understand that we as African-Americans aren’t who society portrays us to be. Knowing that, I’ve come to the conclusion that no matter what the world has painted African-Americans to be, this month showcases greatness at its finest,” Lumpkin said.

Sophomore Shasha Ogork shared how celebrating Black History Month empowers her to be proud of heritage.

“During Black History Month, I feel like people finally talk about black people in history being more than slaves and poverty stricken. You hear about black people excelling. During Black History Month, I feel empowered by seeing all of the other people on TV that look like me. Looking up and seeing all the gorgeous and powerful black women who are changing stereotypes every day gives me hope that I can do the same,” Ogork said.