Teaching My Bi-Racial Daughter About Black History Year-Round

Exploring Black heritage through stories of influential Black women.

Every night, my 7-year-old daughter and I delve into the book “Dancing through Space,” recounting the inspiring journey of Mae Jemison, the first Black female astronaut. Mae Jemison has captivated my daughter’s interest, leading to Mae-themed pajamas, coloring activities, and educational materials.

Amidst Black History Month, I emphasize the importance of our shared Black heritage to my daughter, who is of mixed race. Drawing from my upbringing as a biracial child taught about Black history by my Black mother, I aim to instill in her a sense of identity and pride.

Introduction

When I was my daughter’s age, my mother used to read me books about influential Black Americans, regardless of whether it was Black History Month or just an ordinary day. These books included works by famous Black authors like Langston Hughes, Maya Angelou, and John Steptoe.

Exploring Space

Currently, we are delving into the book titled Dancing Through Space, not because of its focus on Black history, but simply because my daughter selected it from the library. Her passion for outer space, encompassing telescopes, moon rocks, galaxies, rockets, and NASA, is the driving force behind this choice.

Reading Together

Seated comfortably on her bed, we take turns reading the book to each other. As I read about Mae’s aspirations in kindergarten, my daughter reflects on her own evolving dreams for the future, akin to the ever-changing night sky.

Future Aspirations

Expressing her desire to become an astronaut, my daughter receives reassurance that she can pursue any path she desires with her parents’ support. This playful exchange invokes laughter, highlighting the endless possibilities awaiting her.

Passing Down Important Lessons to Our Children

Encouraging our daughter to believe in herself, that she has the ability to achieve anything she desires, and can make a valuable contribution to society as a girl and in the future, as a woman, is essential. It is crucial for her to understand that despite the challenges that come with being a girl, there is a distinction between the struggles faced by women in general and those encountered by Black women. This difference is exemplified by figures like Mae Jemison.

To uphold this tradition inherited from my mother, we make a point of regularly reading books that highlight influential Black women such as the “Little Dreamers” collection. It is vital for our daughter to acknowledge the presence of these remarkable women in areas where they have historically been marginalized, like Jemison, Katherine Johnson, and Bessie Blount Griffin. Their exceptional achievements, breaking of barriers, visionary thinking, and resilience in the face of discrimination showcase their extraordinary strength and determination.

Discovering Representation in Literature

While reading Dancing Through Space with my daughter, we come across a passage highlighting the lack of diversity in the world of science. The text mentions the absence of women, particularly those who resemble Mae, the protagonist.

Recognizing Institutional Discrimination

As we explore the illustration depicting a 1970s classroom, I subtly encourage my daughter to notice the lack of representation for individuals like the lone Black woman present. This scene symbolizes institutional discrimination and the challenges faced by minorities.

Inspiring Possibilities

In an attempt to inspire my daughter, I emphasize that with determination and hard work, she could emulate Mae Jemison’s achievements. My daughter responds positively, reflecting a sense of aspiration and potential.

Historic Milestones of Black Excellence

We reach a pivotal moment in the book, the historic launch of the Space Shuttle Endeavour on September 12, 1992, carrying Mae Jemison as the first Black woman in space. This event symbolizes a significant milestone in Black and American history, a momentous achievement worth celebrating and acknowledging.

Reflecting on Pioneers of Black Achievement

Recalling stories shared by my mother about trailblazers such as Shirley Chisholm, Ruby Bridges, and Jackie Robinson—individuals who achieved historic “firsts” in their respective fields—I contemplate on the importance of sharing these narratives with my daughter, instilling a sense of pride in our shared cultural heritage.

Reflections on Black History Month

Feeling remorseful during Black History Month, I grapple with the realization that I have not adequately educated my daughter about what it truly means to be Black. However, I understand that the primary purpose of Black History Month is to commemorate and honor the resilience of Black individuals who have triumphed over immense challenges such as racial injustice, systemic oppression, and slavery.

Black History is American History

My daughter, unaware of her father’s Black heritage, innocently uses a darker crayon to color him in family drawings. She has yet to grasp the concept of race and the disparities it can bring.

The timing of discussing race with children varies based on factors like community, culture, and family dynamics, alongside the privilege of racial ambiguity. My daughter’s mixed-race status, much like mine, may not be immediately evident.

Despite her racial ambiguity, understanding Black History and the achievements of Black women like Mae Jemison is crucial for my daughter’s development. Reading about figures like Jemison emphasizes the significance of her Black identity in a society that historically deems Black women as inferior.

Importance of Teaching Black History

My mother’s lesson to me was about understanding Black people beyond physical appearance. American identity includes Black American identity, as Langston Hughes expressed in “I too, am America.”

Value of Including Black American Contributions

Educating children about Black Americans’ contributions is vital for all families. Using Black History Month to integrate these stories, like sharing about George Washington Carver, fulfills its purpose.

Origins of Black History Month

In 1976, President Gerald Ford initiated Black History Month to recognize the often overlooked achievements of Black Americans across history.

Inadequate Coverage of Black History

Only 8–9% of class time in U.S. history lessons focuses on Black history, highlighting the need for parents, like me, to teach children about our Black heritage consistently, not limited to Black History Month.

Acknowledging Diversity in American History

Learning about outer space introduces us to remarkable figures like Mae Jemison, Katherine Johnson, and the Apollo 13 mission. Similarly, exploring my daughter’s interests in ballet and gymnastics led us to discover inspiring stories of Misty Copeland in “Bunheads” and Simone Biles in “Flying High.”

Embracing Diversity and Justice

It is crucial for us to recognize that America has the potential to become a nation that truly values diversity and justice. However, this potential can only be realized through action. If we believe in the words of the Declaration of Independence, stating that “all men are created equal,” then we must reflect this in our daily lives, whether at home, school, work, or any other setting. Acknowledging and learning from history is the first step towards creating a more inclusive and equal society, not just for ourselves but also for future generations.

The Status of Black History in U.S. Schools and Society

Black history in the United States has had a long and complex relationship with education and society. The way this history is taught in schools plays a crucial role in shaping societal perceptions and attitudes towards the African American experience.

Historical Context

Black history has been marginalized and often omitted from textbooks and curriculum in U.S. schools for many years. This lack of representation has perpetuated stereotypes and reinforced systemic racism within society.

Progress and Challenges

Efforts to integrate Black history into school curricula have improved over time, with the introduction of Black History Month and the inclusion of more diverse perspectives in educational materials. However, challenges such as resistance from certain groups and a lack of comprehensive teaching still persist.

Importance of Inclusive Education

Teaching Black history in a comprehensive and accurate manner is essential for promoting diversity, equity, and understanding among students. It allows for a more complete understanding of American history and encourages critical thinking about social issues.

Call to Action

There is a need for continued advocacy and support to ensure that Black history is fully integrated into U.S. schools and society. This includes ongoing curriculum development, teacher training, and community engagement to empower future generations with knowledge and empathy.