Black History Month, a time each year dedicated to reminding us of our nation’s dark past.
Anish Tokas, a 19-year-old international student from India, New Delhi has now experienced his third Black History Month in America.
“My first year in America during Black History Month was a surprise for me”, Anish said. “I noticed signs everywhere and even commercials on TV celebrating it with special deals and events. It was something I hadn’t seen before, and it made me realize how much importance is placed on honoring this history here.”
But after his third year in America, Tokas is slowly getting accustomed to the month and doesn’t find it as remarkable anymore.
“I understand the purpose behind Black History Month, and I think it’s important to honor African American history and contributions,” Tokas said. “It’s just that sometimes, with so much focus during this one month, I wonder if it could be spread out more throughout the year. That way, it feels like a continuous conversation rather than something we only highlight in February.
David Herrig who is experiencing Black History Month for the first time in America, is another international student who regularly studies at the University of Cologne but is spending this semester abroad at SUNY Cortland.
“Experiencing Black History Month for the first time has been eye-opening for me. In Germany, we don’t have anything quite like this, so it’s been an interesting way to learn about the struggles and achievements of African Americans,” Herrig said. It’s a reminder of how much work still needs to be done for equality, and it’s inspiring to see how much this month means to people here.
What was the most “eye-opening” experience with Black History Month and what is the thing that makes the mont stand out to you?
“I haven’t seen too much here in Cortland, except for posters and some flyers. Most of the cool stuff has been on social media around the country. I can imagine that you have to live in a bigger city to experience that”, Baldwin said.
Both International students seem to have had a decent Black History Month experience what about the American students? The one who has lived past multiple Black History Month?
Liam Baldwin, a senior at SUNY Cortland majoring in Exercise Science has not gone a year without witnessing the month of February in America since he was born.
“It’s something I’ve grown up with every February. But being in a college environment has made it feel different,” Baldwin said. There’s a sense of community around it. The events, discussions, and even the way it’s braided into classes have made it more meaningful.”
Has the University assisted you in gaining more knowledge about Black History Month and do you think it has benefited you as an individual?
“Yes and no. I already learned about the importance of the month before I came to Cortland. But the school has also done a good job by presenting which month it is and I will never miss it again thanks to all the emails,” Baldwin said.