Occhi’s Perspective on Black History Month

As we sit in the middle of America’s Black History month, it brings to light an important question to ask in 2021. Why do we have Black History month? As I channel surfed last week, that question was posed to a man on a certain channel’s panel. No, he wasn’t black (go figure). He proceeded to say that there shouldn’t be Black History month and he was sick and tired of white guilt enabling our society in magnifying the contributions of black people to the world. Interestingly, he would bring up Thomas Edison a man that we revere in school. I’m sure that this panelist never heard of Granville T. Woods, a black man who would sue Thomas Edison over a stolen patent and win. Yes, I said win…in the 1800s.

We learn about Alexander Graham Bell, but how many of us know the many contributions of Benjamin Banneker? Black History month is still the shortest month of the year and showcases just a few important figures. Truthfully, I agree with the panelist. There shouldn’t be Black History Month. No person should be guilted into learning integral parts of this country’s history. The good, the bad, and the ugly. The contributions of all Americans should be studied throughout the year, not separately. It’s time to reexamine our school curriculum. It is our history.

What does this have to do with arts and entertainment? Everything. Occhi Magazine strives to shine a bright light on a diverse array of artists and their work. It is not a forced inclusion. We look at the work for what it is and its impact. Artists are more prone to respect the work for what it is, before examining the creator. Of course, there are exceptions. Throughout this pandemic, the arts have been stifled. Platforms to display and showcase art are closing or limited. But artists are used to obstacles and are finding new ways to get art to the masses. Virtual concerts, art galleries, and Zoom listening parties are becoming the norm. The arts will continue to influence. The Civil Rights movement had a soundtrack that paralleled the emotions of the time. Those emotions are not limited to black people. It’s time for dialogue instead of debate. We’re better when we learn together. We’re better when we listen to one another. The arts have always provided that common ground. Fellow artists, we have work to do. it’s time to open some minds.

Main Image: Malcom X  Photograph by Eve Arnold/ Magnum Photos

About Author

Mark Vodery

Mark Vodery was a Managing Editor of Occhi Magazine. A member of the National Association of Black Journalists, he studied Mass Communications at West Chester University. As an experienced session vocalist, he has toured the world and had several original works featured in film and television. Mark has been involved with several New York City projects including Feel the Music! and Make Music New York. An avid music lover, he takes pride in his extensive vinyl collection and spends his free time helping to facilitate service projects that benefit at-risk youth, through artistic philanthropy. Mark is based in New York and resides in New Jersey with his lovely wife and two daughters.

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