In 1976, the United States government officially recognized Black History Month.

Back then, this was clearly a monumental step for not only black communities but for everyone.

Now, 40 years later, students still see the importance of it.

Senior Aniya Hightower finds Black History Month to be important.

“For me, it is a month that symbolizes African-Americans that fought for peace and equality,” Hightower said. “It is a time for thanking and remembering what it means to be black … and to reflect on how and why we have the opportunities we have today.

“Then, outside the African-American part of it, it is about values like leadership, determination, courage and true character.”

Hightower clearly finds Black History Month to be an empowering and peaceful thing for blacks.

Jon McKay, senior, also respects and appreciates a month being dedicated toward black history.

“Black History Month is about looking back on the past and being thankful for the present,” McKay said. “It is about giving respect to the ones that held strong to a cause and risked their lives if it meant a better future for generations to come filled with equality, equity, respect, and peace.”

Ultimately, Black History Month is about celebrating the lives of those who fought for their rights.

Senior Deitrick Young sees it as a way to honor and give credit to those people who risked everything to create the equality that exists today.

But, is one month really enough to celebrate the lives of those who gave their everything for such a great cause?

Junior Jada Brown does not think so.

“I think that Black History Month should not be a thing,” Brown said. “The history and importance of black peoples’ contributions to America should not be narrowed down to a 28-day period.”

Brown made a point that many have not heard before that should be considered.

“I know Black History Month is trying to honor the black people that helped make the country the way it is now, but they should have more than just one month to be remembered for what they did,” Brown said.

Whether you agree with Brown’s point or not, Black History Month is a tremendous achievement for America.

It represents all of the things the nation was built on — liberty and freedom.

Everyone deserves to be free and the month of February is a constant reminder to never let history repeat itself.