Every February, Black History Month serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience, brilliance, and contributions of Black individuals throughout history. It is more than a moment of reflection—it is a time to celebrate the deep ancestral connections that bind Black communities across generations, from food and faith to shared spaces of gathering. It is also a moment to recognize Black excellence in every arena, including sports, arts, and education, as well as to confront challenges that persist in society.
Ancestral Connections: The Roots of Community
For Black communities, history lives not only in textbooks but also in traditions passed down through generations. Food, for instance, is a sacred bridge to ancestry—recipes like gumbo, collard greens, jambalaya, and black-eyed peas tell stories of survival and adaptation, influenced by West African, Caribbean, and Southern cultures. Worship remains a cornerstone of resilience, with Black churches historically serving as both spiritual and social hubs that fueled movements for justice. Likewise, the act of coming together—whether in barbershops, beauty salons, or family reunions—reinforces the communal spirit that has been vital to Black endurance and joy.
Super Bowl LIX: A Testament to Black Excellence
This year’s Super Bowl LIX carried deep historical weight, as it featured two Black quarterbacks leading their teams—an achievement that echoed the groundbreaking victory of Doug Williams in 1988, the first Black quarterback to win a Super Bowl. Williams’ triumph shattered myths about Black athletes’ ability to lead at the highest levels. Now, with stars like Jalen Hurts, Patrick Mahomes, and Lamar Jackson taking center stage, the legacy continues, proving that Black excellence is not only present but dominant in the NFL.
However, the game was not without controversy. Kendrick Lamar, a Pulitzer Prize-winning artist known for his unapologetic commentary on race and society, performed at the halftime show. While some appreciated the performance steeped in Black pride and social consciousness, others—particularly conservative voices—criticized the NFL for embracing artists who challenge mainstream narratives. The discourse surrounding his performance highlights the ongoing struggle for Black expression in historically exclusive spaces.
In society, Black History Month is a call to action. It urges institutions to not only recognize past injustices but also to commit to policies that promote fairness, inclusiveness and access, whether in hiring practices, media representation, or criminal justice reform. The month serves as both a celebration and a challenge: to honor Black history authentically and to ensure that its lessons inform a more just and inclusive future for all.
As we commemorate Black History Month in 2025, we are reminded that Black history is American history—alive in every meal shared, every song sung, every milestone achieved, and every barrier broken. And in the recent words of a dear friend, Harriet Sanford, “Black is me celebrating my excellence every day. No month or permission needed. No one can take it away!”