Charles Rangel: “celebrating Black History Month is an opportunity to reflect upon the innumerable contributions that Blacks have made to…”

“celebrating Black History Month is an opportunity to reflect upon the innumerable contributions that Blacks have made to the advancement of American society and culture. People of color whether from the homeland in Africa, the Caribbean, Latin America or North America, they have been more than instrumental in shaping the social complexion of America and humanity. It was Carter G. Woodson in 1926 who initiated ``Negro History Week'' in the United States to promote ``a better understanding of the contributions'' of Blacks to human civilization. This noble effort 80 years ago has been successful in informing people all over the world about the numerous contributions of Blacks. It has also aided in reshaping and negating distortions that historians have in many cases intentionally promulgated. Black History Month continues to amplify accurate depictions and narratives about a myriad of global endeavors. These undertakings have drastically improved the daily lives and landscape of the world. Individuals such as Pianky, the military genius and Black King of Nubia who conquered Egypt around 700 BC; Antar, the African-Arabian poet and story teller; and Abram Hannibal, the soldier and commander of 18th century Russia to Chaka who led South Africa until his assassination in 1828 all exemplify and indicate historic contributions to society.…”