Black history month is used to remember African Americans who have impacted our societies. It is celebrated during February and this month helps educate people about their ancestors and peers’ history, students are feeling good about this month and these are their thoughts.

     “It’s not just about being educated and learning about people’s basic human rights but it’s more about what people of color are doing for the community” said sophomore Maëlle Munnings. 

    Tampa preps teachers have been very good at incorporating facts about black history month into classes by educating students in bands or musicians. While the teachers have been making an effort by demonstrating black music and poetry, students feel that Tampa Prep as a whole could be doing more to educate students.

“We could be doing a little more but i think they’re doing good, culture shock has black history month events at lunch every week which is really informative” said Munnings.

    Seeking knowledge about this month is important to realize the importance of people of color who have changed America. Rosa Parks and Harriet Tubman are amazing people who have fought for civil rights, and Tampa prep should also focus on learning about the lesser-known influencers.

    “We should be knowledgeable about other civil rights activists like Malcolm X, and I think black history month gives us all a chance to come together and learn” said sophomore Dayvion Porter.

    The Tampa Prep faculty could be incorporating greater education. Students of color believe that Tampa prep could be doing more about this month not just history but things that are big in the black community like rap and other forms of music.

   “We should show people a variety of different things that are produced by African Americans because a lot of daily things we use we might not even think about like peanut butter. Same with things like hip hop or rap people don’t always notice they are listening to African culture” said sophomore Eva Pierce.

     Tampa Prep should have more discussions surrounding black history month. Greater discussion allows students and teachers to become educated and spread facts throughout all grade levels.

“I think that in high school, yes, Tampa prep is doing a great job with black history month. But I think it would be nice to see more events and discussions surrounding black history month incorporated into the middle school” said Pierce.

    The month of February is dedicated to inform and educate people about African American culture and how it has impacted American citizens. Civil rights have been taken away from human beings and people should not be oppressed because of their race, instead, listen to African Americans not just through this month but yearly.