The recent push in states like Florida to ban or restrict the teaching of Black history has sparked outrage, but let’s be honest—this isn’t new. For generations, schools have treated Black history as an afterthought, if they’ve addressed it at all. And even when they do, what they call “Black history” isn’t necessarily the truth our children deserve to learn.
When schools focus solely on slavery, segregation, and oppression, they fail to tell the full story. That isn’t Black history—it’s white history, centering on how white people enslaved, segregated, and oppressed us. The richness of our legacy—the empires we built, the revolutions we led, the art, science, and culture we contributed—is largely ignored. And if we’re being real, these government-run schools were never designed to teach that truth in the first place.
What’s Happening Now
In states across the country, there’s a wave of legislation aimed at erasing even the limited Black history currently taught in schools. Florida’s decision to reject an Advanced Placement African American Studies course is just one example. Officials argue that such courses lack “educational value” or violate laws banning discussions that might make students feel “discomfort” about race.
This effort to sanitize history is part of a larger agenda to control the narrative about race in America. By erasing lessons on systemic racism and the contributions of Black people, they’re shaping a version of history that centers whiteness and diminishes the truth of our experiences.
For Black mothers, this news isn’t just concerning—it’s a wake-up call. If we rely on schools to teach our children their history, we’re setting them up to grow up disconnected from their roots and their power.
Why This Matters for Our Kids
When our children don’t learn about their history, they lose more than facts—they lose the connection to their heritage. They miss out on the knowledge of who they are and the pride that comes from knowing they come from a legacy of greatness.
Black history isn’t just about oppression—it’s about resilience, brilliance, and transformation. It’s about the civilizations we built in Africa long before colonization. It’s about the inventors, scholars, and leaders who shaped the world. It’s about the cultural traditions that connect us to our ancestors and remind us of our strength.
And here’s the truth: Schools have never prioritized teaching this. Their version of history doesn’t celebrate our greatness because it was never meant to. It’s up to us as Black mothers to ensure our children learn the truth about who they are and where they come from.
The Fight for Our Legacy
The recent attacks on Black history in schools are a reminder that we cannot rely on anyone else to teach our children who they are. This has never been part of their agenda, and it never will be. As Black mothers, we must take control of the narrative, ensuring that our children know their true history—not the whitewashed version schools offer.
Taking Matters Into Our Own Hands
This isn’t just about reacting to the recent news—it’s about recognizing the ongoing responsibility we have to our children. Programs like AfroYogiKids.com provide opportunities for our kids to connect with their heritage in ways that schools simply won’t. Afro Yogi Kids offers a unique approach by blending Afrocentric themes with mindfulness and self-awareness, helping children build confidence and embrace their identity.
Visit AfroYogiKids.com to explore resources that celebrate our culture and empower our children. Together, we can rise above the erasure and ensure that our legacy is preserved for generations to come.
Black history is too powerful, too vital, and too transformative to be erased. It’s time to teach our children the truth—and remind them of the greatness they carry in their blood.
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.
