UPDATE: VOTING MOVED TO FEB. 4
LA PLATA, Md. — On Jan. 14, 2024, the decision to rename Black History Month in Charles County was postponed by the Charles County Board of Commissioners at the request of Commissioner Ralph Patterson.
On March 5, 2024, Ralph Patterson, vice president of the Board of Commissioners, proposed officially renaming “Black History Month” to “African American Heritage Month.” The aim of this proposal is to better reflect the comprehensive scope of African American culture, history, and achievements. Proponents of the name change believe it could promote inclusivity and unity by broadening the focus beyond just the history of Black Americans’ struggles and challenges.
To gauge public opinion, the county initiated a community engagement effort, sharing the proposal with residents through social media platforms (Facebook and Nextdoor), the “Inside Your County Government” newsletter, the “Employee Connection” newsletter, Community Conversation meetings, and an online survey conducted from July 26 to Aug. 31, 2024. The process generated a wide range of feedback, with residents expressing both support and opposition.
Supporters argued that “African American Heritage Month” would offer broader recognition of African American contributions. Critics expressed concerns that renaming Black History Month might diminish the historical significance of African Americans’ specific contributions and struggles. They emphasized that the current name holds deep historical and cultural weight, representing a dedicated time to honor African Americans’ unique experiences and legacy.
The online survey received 280 submissions. Most respondents identified as either Black or African American (74.69%) or White (30.25%). The engagement revealed a strong preference for maintaining the term “Black History Month” due to its inclusivity, historical significance, and recognition. While there is some support for “African American Heritage Month,” concerns about exclusion, divisiveness, and undermining a well-established legacy were prevalent. Participants expressed concern that renaming it might exclude those who do not directly identify as African American and reduce the focus on the broader achievements of Black individuals.
These responses are being used to guide the decision-making process, ensuring that the community’s input is considered.
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lets have Claudette Colvin weigh in on this. lets have Alveda King weigh in on this.
Elon is an African American
“The engagement revealed a strong preference for maintaining the term “Black History Month” due to its inclusivity, historical significance, and recognition.”
Exactly, if it ain’t broke, don’t try and fix it. Patterson should go back and review his campaign slogan.
/political-profile-ralph-patterson-candidate-for-charles-county-commissioner-district-4/
“According to Patterson, “This is my campaign slogan because it explains exactly why I am running: Access to more opportunities for an improved quality of life for all Charles County residents right now.”
thats tonight!