Theres no American history without African American history. by Gabrielle

Theres no American history without African American history. by Gabrielle - January 2023 Scholarship Essay

African American history is an integral and essential part of American history as a whole. It is the story of a people who were brought to this country against their will and subjected to centuries of slavery, segregation, and discrimination. Despite facing countless obstacles and injustices, African Americans have made countless contributions to our nation and have fought tirelessly for their rights and freedoms.

One reason why African American history should be required in schools is that it helps to promote understanding and combat ignorance and prejudice. Many students may not be aware of the full extent of the struggles and triumphs of the African American community. By including African American history in the curriculum, students can learn about the bravery and perseverance of figures such as Rosa Parks, Martin Luther King Jr., and Malcolm X, and the many other individuals who fought for civil rights and equality. This knowledge can help to foster empathy and understanding, and may even inspire students to stand up for what is right and just.

Another reason why African American history should be required in schools is that it helps to promote a sense of pride and belonging. Too often, African American students may feel that their culture and history are not valued or represented in the classroom. By including African American history in the curriculum, students can learn about the many contributions and achievements of their ancestors, and feel a sense of pride and connection to their heritage. This can be especially important for African American students who may not have access to information about their history and culture outside of school.

In addition to promoting understanding and a sense of pride, the inclusion of African American history in the curriculum can also help to promote critical thinking and encourage students to think for themselves. By exposing students to different perspectives and histories, they can learn to question what they have been told and to think for themselves. This can be especially important in today's world, where there is a proliferation of misinformation and fake news. By learning about African American history, students can develop the skills they need to evaluate sources and make informed decisions.

Finally, the inclusion of African American history in the curriculum is simply the right thing to do. Our country has a long and complex history, and it is important that all aspects of that history are recognized and understood. By omitting African American history from the curriculum, we are not only doing a disservice to African American students, but we are also failing to give all students a complete and accurate understanding of our country's past.

In conclusion, African American history should be required in schools for a variety of reasons. It helps to promote understanding and combat ignorance and prejudice, promotes a sense of pride and belonging, encourages critical thinking, and is simply the right thing to do. By including African American history in the curriculum, we can create a more inclusive and compassionate society, and ensure that all students have access to a well-rounded education.