“Parents, Will You Choose to Teach Your Children the Whole Truth or Let History Be Erased?”

Fellow parents, have you noticed that some parts of Black history seem to be missing from your child’s education? It’s crucial that we take action and fill in the gaps left by traditional schooling.

By sharing the untold stories of our ancestors, their struggles, victories, and legacy, we empower our children with knowledge, pride, and a sense of responsibility. In a world where Black voices are often silenced or minimized, let’s ensure that our kids know the whole truth.

It’s up to us to tell our own story. We mustn’t rely on others to teach our children about their history. Instead, let’s take charge and give them a well-rounded understanding of where we come from and what we’re made of. Together, we can ensure that our kids grow up informed and empowered.

In our household we don’t dare to neglect to teach our children about the full scope of Black history, we risk repeating the mistakes of the past. By not acknowledging and learning from our collective history, we leave ourselves vulnerable to repeating cycles of injustice and oppression. 

For me and my family, this work is deeply personal. We cannot rely on schools, textbooks, or society to always tell the truth, because too often pieces of our history are left out, watered down, or ignored completely. We don’t want our children to be misled, silenced, or taught the wrong narrative, or worse, not spoken about at all. It’s surprising, and sometimes painful, when younger children of a different race stare with curiosity, never having learned about Black or Brown skin, their questions written in their eyes. That silence and lack of awareness is exactly why we must teach our children the full story, so they grow up confident in their identity and aware of the truths that shaped the world around them.

It’s important to recognize that there have been and continue to be powerful Black leaders all over the world, yet they are often overshadowed by their white counterparts. Why is it that only white leaders seem to receive recognition and praise? This question speaks to the larger issue of systemic racism and bias, which continues to permeate our society.

By teaching our children about the Black leaders who have shaped our world, we can challenge these harmful narratives and foster a more equitable future. It’s crucial that we celebrate and honor the achievements of Black leaders, past and present, in order to create a more just and inclusive society for generations to come. There is much to be learned from leaders of all backgrounds and cultures. By studying the diverse experiences and accomplishments of leaders from around the world, we can gain a deeper understanding of our shared humanity and the rich tapestry of history.

From the political revolutionaries of Africa to the wise sages of Asia, from the indigenous leaders of the Americas to the thinkers and innovators of Europe, there is a wealth of knowledge and inspiration waiting to be discovered. By exposing our children to these diverse perspectives, we can cultivate empathy, curiosity, and global awareness. Ultimately, by embracing and celebrating the achievements of leaders from all walks of life, we create a world in which our children can thrive and learn from one another.

As parents, especially Black folks, it’s up to us to tell our own stories and ensure that our children receive a well-rounded education. We have to create a world where our kids can thrive, appreciate the rich tapestry of history, and learn from one another. Together, we can build a future that celebrates and honors the achievements of all leaders, past and present.

Shamecca Brown is a columnist, advocate, and mother rooted in New York grit and New Hampshire growth. Her writing uplifts the unheard, challenges systems, and speaks truth from the inside out. She can be reached at shameccabny@gmail.com