Feb 25, 2018 3 min read

Respect is an important trait that helps our world to thrive and grow.

Respecting each other and the work that we do for our world, county or city is a trait that we should all strive to inherit. Black History Month is something that not only deserves respect, but should also be celebrated constantly.

It is a time of year when we take a breath from our busy schedules and recognize the talent and dedication of African-Americans who have shaped this world. At the moment, we know Black History Month is celebrated in February, but the work these creators have put in to shape our universe is worth far much more than a month.

These once-and-forever citizens of Earth should constantly be celebrated. They remind us that we are who we are today because of what they decided to create.

Celebrating the work of these great men and women is something that should be continuous throughout our years, not just 28 days in the month of February. For instance, there are many others who should be recognized for their work.

Being an ally helps me feel strong and confident, and able to stand behind the rights of someone who is different than myself. In our times, we need to have the strength to support each other, and have an open mind to different beliefs.

Fifty-eight years ago, standing behind something or someone different than yourself was considered wrong and shamed. But we have come too far to continue that.

We have fought too hard to treat someone of a different ethnicity differently, only to shun them because of their skin color. Growing up in such a diverse public school has helped me to stand up and accept students facing any type of segregation or bullying against their ethnicity, beliefs or sexuality. Standing behind someone not only gives you confidence, but it also gives your peers the comfort and strength to continue on, because they know they have someone they can always come to.

In other words, someone they can fall back on, knowing they have someone to catch them. Being an ally is a trait that you acquire over time.

There should not be a separate month devoted to the history of African-Americans. By celebrating their achievements in one of the 12 months in a year is degrading the work and dedication they put in to shape our economy.

Our country has grown and continues to grow because of the contributions and work of African American citizens. The work of these African-Americans is worth from much more than a month can provide to us. They deserve to be celebrated 365 days of the year.