Atlanta Daily World

Negro History Week, Like Time, Marches On
(February 12-19)

Briefly enough, at this season of the year, from the family circle on, there is a commemoration of the achievements in Negro history. Not only would the Negro be interested in such project, but in a world like ours, in an ever shrinking world, civilization at large would be concerned in what a group, with such a background as our people, are contributing in the stride of human events.

The theme this year: "Freedom and Democracy for the Negro after One Hundred Years, 1861-1961."

Thusly, it is with pride that we pause in recognition of this event in which the spotlight is turned on the past, as well as the present that the old and the new might be thrown up in vivid contrast of what a race has and is doing to make this a better and more interesting world in which to live.

In such an atmosphere, generated for the most from the institutions of learning and the press, the name of Carter G. Woodson, the originator of the idea that has meant so much to this cause, never remains an outcast. The debt to him can never be paid and as long as the project is remembered, he will be honored and loved.

We are not the least unmindful of the fact that Negro history is world history; that his contribution is a part of the rest of the records, and what he has done deserves a place among other worthwhile notations of world interest. What makes his efforts stand out, would be the fact that in so many instances, his contributions are neglected and almost totally ignored in current day history, writing.

Not many of our schools carry in their curriculums a course in Negro history and up until a few years ago, no official record was kept to standardize any authentic courses in Negro accomplishments.

Not only should Negro pupils study and know Negro history but adults among us should refresh themselves on the race's accomplishments which should be inspiration to new efforts.

A truly to be ignorant of the records and accomplishments of any group would not in anywise commend itself as an asset.

The good things about Negroes and what they have insisted and done should be a record for all the people. Such should be spread on the pages of standard history and blended into the general history of civilized man.

A long time after this is finally done, Negro History Week will have to come in and fill the gap left by those who conveniently circumscribe their records.

Negro History Week, like time, marches on.