John Ford, Equity Specialist

Zephyrus: What does Black History Month mean to you?  

John Ford: The word “History” means His-Story and Carter G Woodson, the founder of the holiday started Black History Week in 1926 to tell the Black Story.  At that time  Black Americans and their accomplishments were largely left out of the educational curricula during that period. Where blacks were mentioned, it was usually very demeaning imagery or discriminatory ideas.  Therefore, BHM gives me an opportunity to discuss “Black Excellence” and the legacy and contributions of my heroes.  People like Marcus Garvey, Haile Selassie, Emmett Till, and Mansa Musa.

Z: Do you believe that EHS sufficiently recognizes Black History Month?

J.F.: Since I work at all nine schools in the district, I see what is happening in every school.  Carter G. Woodson did not intend for us to only focus on Black accomplishments in February, because Black History is American and World History, and should be discussed throughout the year in  a year-round school curricula relevant to all students of every race. I am very proud of the efforts of  Black Student Union (BSU) and their entire movement.  They have taken the initiative upon themselves in an effort to tell this very important story. I am also thankful for the work and the vision of Dr. Carter G. Woodson. History is indeed a human need. His contribution and that of other Black Americans is considerable and far too important to ever be compartmentalized into just one month.