As Black History Month Comes to a Close, The Education Must Continue

It's often a joke that Black History Month takes place during the shortest month of the year. However, the lack of history -- especially cinematic history of African Americans -- taught in schools is no laughing matter. This lack of teaching can often be reflected in embarrassing displays of ignorance, despite the best intentions.

I remember one night during my sophomore year of college heading to the video section of the on campus library to rent a movie for a class project. It was February and so there were a few things going on in regards to Black History Month. As I'm walking towards the video department, I notice a display case with a sign above it that reads something along the lines of "Black History Month Films." I took a peek at what films were in the display case and after seeing the selection of movies, I was ready to slap somebody. Stepin' Fetchit, "Gone With the Wind," "The Amos n' Andy Show," and, drum roll please . . . "Booty Call." These were the names and films chosen to 'honor' Black History Month.