Florida has emerged as a leading proponent of silencing Black voices and distorting the comprehensive history and current realities of Black people through Gov. Ron DeSantis’s “Stop WOKE” law. This law seeks to restrict discussions and education surrounding race and gender, perpetuating a nationwide campaign that undermines the experiences and contributions of Black people across the world.
The oppressive measures witnessed in Florida are not limited to a single state; they are gradually spreading to other parts of the country as well. Presently, 15 states have enforced educational gag orders, and several state legislatures are considering similar censorship measures.
Alarming statistics from July 2021 to June 2022,as documented by PEN America’s Index of School Book Bans reveal that 2,532 instances of individual books being banned have occurred, impacting a staggering 1,648 book titles. Most of these banned books contain content featuring prominent characters of color, LGBTQIA+ protagonists or themes addressing race and racism.
In the face of alarming developments such as the “Stop WOKE” law, the concerning increase in technology usage among minors, the banning of influential Black books and the ongoing neglect of telling Black history, it becomes crucial for the Black community to unite and reshape the narrative. Taking action becomes imperative to safeguard our history, struggles and achievements from being relegated to mere stories shared around firesides. It is particularly crucial to prioritize our Black children in this endeavor.
Given the pattern to undermine and disregard the contribution of Black people across the world, it becomes necessary to cultivate a love for reading and uphold Black history to nurture the minds of Black children. By exposing them to diverse narratives, we can empower them with knowledge, build their self-esteem and instill a strong sense of cultural identity that will pass from generation to generation.
Reading is a gateway to intellectual growth, allowing children to develop crucial cognitive and language skills. For Black children, reading can be a powerful tool to combat the barriers they may face in education. By encouraging a love for reading at an early age, we can equip them with the necessary tools to navigate an often-biased educational system. Reading enhances vocabulary, critical thinking and problem-solving abilities and will enable Black children to excel academically and beyond.
In addition to the alarming prospect of Black stories being erased, the decline in proficient reading skills casts a dark cloud over Black children. A recent report by Michigan Capital in 2021 reveals a distressing statistic: 88 percent of third-grade students in Detroit are below proficiency in reading. This alarming figure sheds light on a broader issue that exists within our schools and community. As we witness the erasure of Black history, we also observe a decline in the love and level of reading among Black children.
This concerning trend is a clear indication that there are systemic challenges affecting educational outcomes and literacy rates among Black students. It underscores the urgent need for comprehensive interventions that address the root causes of this disparity. As we strive to preserve Black history and culture, it is vital to prioritize initiatives that reignite passion for reading and provide equitable access to high-quality literacy resources. So how do we do it?
The path toward reshaping the narrative and preserving Black history begins with collective action and strategic planning. Educational awareness, curriculum reform, amplification of Black voices and legislative advocacy are great ways to begin implementing positive change.
- Education and Awareness: Start by raising awareness within the community about the importance of preserving Black history and the consequences of its erasure. Organize educational workshops, community discussions and cultural events that highlight the significance of Black narratives.
- Curriculum Reform: Advocate for comprehensive and inclusive curricula in schools. Engage with educators, administrators and policymakers to ensure that Black history is integrated into the standard curriculum at all levels. Push for the inclusion of diverse perspectives, experiences and achievements of Black individuals throughout history.
- Amplify Black Voices: Support and uplift Black authors, artists, scholars and activists. Promote their work through book clubs, art exhibitions, public lectures and social media platforms. By amplifying Black voices, we can challenge the dominant narratives and provide platforms for authentic storytelling.
- Legislative Advocacy: Engage in advocacy efforts to push for policies that promote the teaching of Black history in schools, ensure equitable access to educational resources and challenge discriminatory laws. Mobilize community members to contact elected officials, participate in public hearings and support organizations working for policy change.
By taking these steps, the Black community can initiate a transformative journey towards reclaiming and preserving its history. Together, we can counter the erasure, celebrate the resilience and ensure that future generations have a comprehensive understanding of the Black experience.
It is also essential to highlight often overlooked local initiatives that specifically contribute to the preservation of Black history and help drive the narrative forward.
Read to a Child Detroit: In 2012, Read to a Child embarked on its mission to tackle the pressing issue of 3rd grade literacy in Metro Detroit elementary schools. Since its inception, the organization has expanded its reach, currently supporting four schools in Detroit and Pontiac. Through thousands of weekly one-on-one Read Aloud Mentoring Sessions, Read to a Child has made a considerable impact on the academic progress of the students it serves.
Rx for Reading Detroit: Rx for Reading Detroit, a nonprofit literacy initiative supported by the University of Detroit Mercy, has been making significant strides since 2014. Through its efforts, more than 125,000 new and gently used books have been distributed to children and families from low-income backgrounds. Additionally, Detroit Mercy undergraduates have engaged in reading sessions with numerous preschoolers and elementary students across Metro Detroit.
Visit your Local Library: Libraries provide literature that reflects a range of voices, cultures and experiences, allowing Black children to find stories that resonate with their own identities and offer positive representation. Additionally, libraries are treasure troves of cultural and historical resources, providing valuable materials on Black history. Exploring these resources can deepen Black children’s understanding of their heritage, fostering a sense of pride and empowerment.
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