Culture | October 19th, 2022

Celebrate and Commit To History

By: Samuel Williams

[Tallahassee, Fla.] Minority groups have often been the subject of controversy and blame, primarily through the lens of history. While many adverse events are taught about minority cultures, it is dire to celebrate the positive events these cultures have achieved throughout history.

It is just to conclude that history favors well-represented individuals or groups.

The history of underrepresented cultures is often seen through the filters of those who are dominant.

The washing away and cleaning of minority history in institutions further knowledge gaps and invoke ignorance, whether intentional or not. 

It is critical to champion history instead of dispelling it.

Understated cultures need to be taught in academia factually and educationally to unite all peoples and to increase historical relevance in modern society.

It is essential to acknowledge all cultures, no matter how small or insignificant the portrayal seems.

With the integration of all history, especially of minority cultures, the common outlook for those taught will be increasingly progressive. Implementing true history about understated nations and groups will lessen the gap that some races, ethnicities, and cultures must endure.

It is imperative to acknowledge the past, despite how challenging it may seem.

Acknowledging the history of underrepresented cultures, specifically in the education system, will allow the reconstruction of our fellow human rights and address the grievances of many cultures.

The first step in progressing history for the better is acknowledging the mistakes and achievements of all past societies. Some of these events are often overlooked in reference to non-dominant cultures.

According to Deborah Son Holoien, a representative of the Trustee Ad Hoc Committee on Diversity at Princeton University, diversity creates a positive impact on learning.

“Contact with diverse others is positively related to improved cognitive outcomes,” said Holoien.

To benefit all humankind, we as a collective have to include everyone in history, no matter how small they are depicted.

In the modern era, adverse historical events seem more focused on the educational system rather than positive events.

The same can be applied to learning about minority cultures, now the global majority, as many are only remembered by what adverse events the textbooks teach.

To create a better generation that is knowledgeable and more understanding, we must teach the history of all pasts, despite the painful implications that have taken place.

True history will allow sustainable and impactful growth to radiate.

Acknowledging the history of underrepresented cultures is the key to a brighter future for everyone.