Reclaiming Greatness: Inspiring Confidence in African American Children through Their Rich History
In the profound words of Carter G. Woodson, penned in 1922, there lies a timeless call to African American communities: to rediscover and take pride in the grand history and contributions of their ancestors. Woodson, a pioneering figure in celebrating the essence and achievements of Black people, stressed the importance of teaching Black children about their illustrious past—not as a separate chapter of history but as an integral part of the world’s story.
This message holds particular resonance today as we seek to inspire African American children with the confidence and self-love that comes from understanding their cultural and historical heritage. By learning about their roots, which run deep with tales of innovation, leadership, and profound intellectualism, children can see themselves as heirs to a legacy of greatness, capable of shaping a future filled with brilliance and joy.
Woodson’s establishment of Black History Week, which evolved into Black History Month, was a step toward centering Black genius and resisting the erasure of Black contributions. It serves as a yearly reminder of the strength, creativity, and resilience that define the African American experience. However, the mission extends beyond a single month; it’s about embedding this rich history into the everyday consciousness of our children, ensuring they grow up with a profound sense of pride and belonging.
To further this goal, here are approaches that can help African American children embrace their heritage and recognize their potential for greatness:
- Highlight Black Pioneers: Teach children about the Black geniuses who have shaped our world, from scientists and artists to leaders and thinkers. Let these stories inspire them to envision their paths to making impactful contributions.
- Begin Before Enslavement: Ensure that children understand their history does not start with enslavement. Teach them about the civilizations, royalty, and achievements of Africans before the transatlantic slave trade, presenting a fuller, more empowering narrative of Black history.
- Promote Daily Check-ins: Foster an environment where children feel seen and heard. Ask about their joys and challenges, emphasizing that their feelings and experiences matter, and reinforcing that school and home are spaces of love and joy.
- Acknowledge Broad Expressions of Genius: Celebrate the diverse talents and intelligence of African American children, recognizing that their brilliance extends beyond academic achievements to include creativity, problem-solving, empathy, and more.
- Teach About Black Joy: Develop curriculum units that explore the concept of Black joy throughout history and its importance in today’s society. Use culturally responsive materials to help students connect with this joy and see it as a vital part of their identity.
By integrating these strategies into our teaching, we not only honor Woodson’s legacy but also empower African American children to embrace their history and identity with confidence. This education is a form of healing, counteracting narratives that seek to diminish their worth and instead illuminating the path to self-confidence and a beautiful development.
Remembering and teaching the rich history of African American people is more than an academic exercise; it’s a nurturing act that plants the seeds of greatness in the next generation. It assures our children that they come from a lineage of brilliance and joy, equipped to continue a legacy of making meaningful contributions to society.
With Love, Lakischa Smith
Meet Lakischa Smith, a proud mother and a dedicated public health advocate. With a Bachelor’s from Dillard University and a Master’s in Public Health from Florida International University, she’s committed to sharing honest narratives about black motherhood. Lakischa believes in fostering sisterhood to combat the pervasive forces of white supremacy, and empowering African American women to be agents of change for future generations. She asserts that recognizing and addressing our community’s struggles is crucial, for healing is the key to moving forward. Armed with the power of education and a deep belief in collective action, Lakischa is determined to ensure that the issues impacting African American parenthood aren’t just seen—they’re addressed and resolved.
