By Crystal Smith, Managing Editor.
As the calendar turns to February, nations around the world commemorate Black History Month as they reflect on the achievements, struggles, and contributions of the Black community.
While this celebration is deeply rooted in the history of the United States, its significance extends far beyond national borders.
Saint Leo University’s community is dominated by international students that originate from countries such as The Bahamas, Jamacia, India, Asia, and various other countries. It’s imperative to acknowledge the diverse perspectives that they offer to enrich the overall conversation that surrounds the topic of Black History.
Personal observations such as grand celebrations for this holiday have revealed that numerous Americans assume that Black History is something that is recognized all around the world.
However, the reality is that this celebration is not as common in other countries as some might believe. In fact, the awareness and observance of Black History Month can vary widely among different nations and cultures.
International students are being exposed to a new cultural context and may find themselves navigating the significance of Black History Month for the first time. While some may choose to actively participate and engage in the celebrations, others may be unaware of its existence or may not fully comprehend its importance.
“As an international student I was always made aware of Black history and Black Excellence. However, I never really celebrated this holiday for an entire month or experienced a true celebration of Black American History as I am from The Bahamas,” said Sanyia Armbrister a junior from The Bahamas majoring in business accounting.
From personal experience, I wasn’t made privy to the grand celebration of Black History before pursuing my tertiary education with the university.
Black History Month serves as an opportunity for individuals from various backgrounds to come together, learn, and appreciate the profound impact of Black culture on society.
International students, often immersed in a different cultural context, find themselves uniquely positioned to engage with and understand the significance of this celebration. Through their own lens, they can explore the narratives, resilience, and accomplishments of Black individuals, both in their home countries and around the world.
One of the key aspects that I’ve learned that international students bring to the table is their ability to bridge cultural gaps.
Coming from different corners of the globe allows them to bring a fresh perspective to the dialogue on Black history, often challenging preconceived notions and stereotypes. By engaging in conversations about the struggles and triumphs of the Black community, these students foster a global understanding of the universal quest for justice, equality, and respect.
Black History Month provides an opportunity for international students to reflect on their own experiences with diversity and inclusion. Many have faced challenges and prejudices, making them keenly aware of the importance of recognizing and appreciating the uniqueness of every individual. This shared sense of solidarity allows for the formation of connections that transcend national borders, creating a global community that celebrates diversity.
Let’s take advantage of the chance to examine the numerous aspects of this event from the perspective of international students as we dive into Black History Month. Their distinct viewpoints not only deepen our knowledge of Black history but also emphasize how important it is for everyone to recognize and value the diverse range of human experiences.
By working together, we can create a more diverse society that recognizes the contributions of all people, regardless of their origin or nationality.
