In Recognition of Black History Month
"I, Too, sing America"
This phrase from the poem “I, Too,” by Harlem Renaissance poet, Langston Hughes, is appropriate to contextualize the contributions made by countless millions of African Americans past, present and doubtless future who have carved a path creating and sustaining its prominence, and will continue to challenge this country toward a more perfect Union. First published in 1926, the poem portrays racism as experienced by Blacks Americans. It is an expression of a figurative expression of denial of a seat at the America table of equality, but offers hope that soon the country will unquestionably acknowledge the beauty, strength, resilience, and genius of African Americans. Some ninety-six years later, During Black History Month 2022, Farmingdale State College seizes this opportunity to once again recognize the role African Americans have played in building the character and strength of the United States.
Throughout the history of the country, people of the African Diaspora have contributed to making America great from “sea to shining sea.” “Sing America” is a poetic metaphor, which is steeped in reality. African slaves crafted tradition that to the present has influenced the development of American music genres such as gospel, blues, ragtime, and jazz. The “singing” resonated far beyond the musical notes on staves. The syncopation of the dogged fortitude and strength found its rhythm in many souls such Martin Luther King, Sojourner Ruth, Marcus Garvey, Frederick Douglass, Maya Angelou, Richard Allen, Fannie Lou Hamer, Hiram Rhodes Revels, and Barak Obama just a few from an ever-growing roster.
This annual celebration, first named as “Negro History Week”, was established in February of 1926 by Harvard-trained historian, Carter G. Woodson, offers a time for all of America to acknowledge, convey, and honor the selfless contributions of the African Diaspora; who despite being often excluded from harmonizing with the symphony of democracy, nonetheless loudly and proudly proclaim the words of what is referred to as the Black National Anthem:
Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us
Sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us
Facing the rising sun of our new day begun
Let us march on till victory is won
Black History Month is a reminder that, “hope springs eternal.” Farmingdale State College pays tribute to the sacrifices and contributions made by generations of African Americans who struggled with adversity to become an integral part of the American tapestry. Yes, in fact, black history does “sing America” and sings loudly!
