Special Month, Special Reason, Straight From the Mike, Michael Murphy

Cobb County, GA – It’s February and it’s Black History Month. This is exactly what Carter G. Woodson had envisioned when he initiated and advocated for a
special time to recognize, honor, and revere the history of Americans of African descent.

The front door is open and the back door is there for convenience and safe exit. It was that sentiment that Mr. Woodson wanted to convey to a race of people, some who thought that the front door was off limits to them. It took that passion for freedom and honor to enhance the heritage of Black America. We have so many giants and significant contributors that deserve love and recognition during these 28 days. You can count so many during this period as we celebrate this auspicious period in our history. Let us not lose sight of the point that this celebration is for the masses, not the classes. A time to reflect, appreciate, and re-dedicate ourselves to ensure an even brighter
future for all of America.

It is abundantly clear that unless we do an even better job of emulating and appreciating the sacrifices made by so many Black Americans being honored, our society stands to begin to take a step backwards. In a year when we soon will be celebrating the birthday of America, it is even more significant to call to mind the importance of this month. For me, a major thought that comes to mind is the thrust for equal rights and voting rights. If every Black American knew what our fore fathers and mothers knew about freedom, the ladder of opportunity and civic engagement, there would be no apathy in our communities on any election day. We are seeing right now and in living color the challenges and potential barriers coming to the forefront. It is as if you are apathetic, indolent and disengaged, it is OK to remain in that state and things will work out. I call such people the ‘Rip Van Winkles’ of our time. Many of us know better and have the responsibility and duty to use a time such as this to spread the word that sacrifices made should not be forgotten or taken for granted.

I am sure each of us have favorites who come to mind this month. Of course, many will lead off with Rev. Dr. King. We have Shirley Chisolm, Barbara Jordan, Ida B. Wells, Vernon Jordan just to name a few. Fortunately, many worthy honorees live on today who made such amazing contributions and exhibit impressive leadership. But looking back, I hasten to mention two of my favorites, not just because they are fraternity brothers, A. Phillip Randolph. He founded the Pullman Car Porters organization to represent his fellow workers to fight for equal rights and recognition in the railroad industry. There was never any doubt in his mind as to which door he wanted to lead his colleagues through, the front door, period. My other favorite is John Lewis, whose record speaks for itself and is itched on the walkway of freedom in our nation. Moreover, my number one is none other than Frederick Douglass. He represents a part of the vanguard of freedom and self-worth. I cannot forget his immortal words, “You may not get all that you pay for in life, but you will pay for everything you get.”?

It is my hope that we take the time to honor and appreciate the contributions of Black history makers at such a special time in the history of this nation. Yes, there have many previous Februarys since the naming of it as Black History Month but I want to suggest that the significance of it this year in line with our nation’s birthday makes it particularly significant. We should not let it be diminished in any way by the actions of some who may feel it is of minimal significance to us as a race and not be respectful of this auspicious month with its honorees and its place in the overall history of this year.

Thankfully, we do not have to depend upon the elevation of Black History Month by someone else, we can do so ourselves, for our own heritage and that of all of us.
Happy Black History Month

I am Michael Murphy