Discovering Our World: The Impact of History Months and Holidays on Understanding Our Future in Maine

It’s February, and there’s buzz about the federal government reportedly “canceling” Black History Month. It’s unclear what this really means or how it affects us day-to-day, but it’s causing quite a stir.

A government statement mentioned that celebrations for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Black History Month, and others would no longer be recognized. This news is disappointing for many people. After all, who doesn’t love a good celebration? I even bought a stylish green sweater for St. Patrick’s Day. Thankfully, that celebration is still on the list!

In fact, the celebrations that remain include notable ones like Pride and Hispanic Heritage Month, while others seem to have been shelved. It makes you wonder what the criteria for these decisions are.

Let’s face it: celebrations are important. They show us what matters to our communities. They bring joy, foster connection, and help us learn from one another. Ignoring these celebrations doesn’t erase the culture or history behind them. Just because someone opts out of a celebration doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist or that its significance is diminished.

So, I’ve decided to celebrate Black History Month anyway. Just like the Whos in “Whoville,” I’ll take this time to reflect and recognize the incredible contributions of people of color who have enriched our world.

For instance, think of Garret A. Morgan, who invented the three-color traffic light, making our roads safer. Then, there’s Frederick McKinley Jones, who created automatic refrigerated trucks, which means we get fresh produce and yes, ice cream, even in winter. Don’t forget Lonnie Johnson, the inventor of the Super Soaker, and the brilliant women portrayed in “Hidden Figures”—Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson. They broke barriers in mathematics and science.

This week, I want to shine a light on Ashley Bryan. Born in the Bronx, he called Maine his home. Bryan was a gifted artist from a young age, and served in WWII, landing on the beaches at Normandy. Despite fighting for freedom abroad, he faced discrimination in the army. After the war, he took control of his own narrative. He created art and literature celebrating Black culture, inviting everyone to join in the joy of expression, regardless of their heritage.

To learn more about his life, check out the documentary “I Know a Man.” And if you’re looking for some uplifting reading, pick up one of his books. Bryan’s work is a wonderful way to infuse joy into your life.

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