Listen to the Black History Celebration speech that can be found at the link below. Write a one-page summary that explains the relevance of what Professor Prentiss Smiley is saying. Be sure to explain what you can do to help preserve Black history in its correct form.
Professor Prentiss Smiley's Black History Celebration speech focused on the importance of preserving and honoring Black history in its true form. He begins by addressing the misconception that Black history is separate from American history, emphasizing that Black history is an integral part of the fabric of the nation and must be recognized as such.
Smiley reminds the audience that Black history is often distorted and white-washed, with significant contributions and achievements of Black individuals being often overlooked or erased. He stresses the need for accurate and complete representation of Black history, including both the struggles and triumphs of Black people throughout history.
One key point that Smiley makes is the importance of individuals taking responsibility for preserving Black history in its correct form. He calls on everyone to educate themselves about Black history, to seek out diverse perspectives, and to actively reject misinformation and stereotypes. He emphasizes the need for ongoing education and dialogue to ensure that Black history is not forgotten or distorted.
In order to help preserve Black history in its correct form, individuals can engage in various actions. This can include supporting Black historians and organizations that are dedicated to preserving and promoting Black history, advocating for diverse representation in educational curriculum and media, and actively seeking out and sharing accurate information about Black history.
Overall, Professor Prentiss Smiley's speech highlights the importance of acknowledging, honoring, and preserving Black history in its true form. By actively engaging with and promoting accurate representations of Black history, individuals can contribute to a more inclusive and accurate understanding of the past and present experiences of Black people.