What were your initial thoughts at the start or approaching the start of the month of February? Did you think about Black History Month or Valentine’s Day (dubbed by some people as the ‘Month of Love’) – or both? Perhaps if you express love for your black identity and culture then perhaps it is a win-win for both topics in the general sense of things The theme of love is a consistent feeling in our nature as human beings.
Our relationships with the people nearest and dearest to us whom we call our loved ones is a clear indication. Noticeably, the commercial promotions for ‘The Month of Love’ are in full swing from entertainment shows to packages as promoters and event planners are taking the usual and expected opportunity to capitalize on Valentine’s Day although the feeling of love is a priceless one.
But of course, for some people, using the occasion to show love to others does come with a cost, and so thus creating another win-win scenario. As per usual, at this time of year, debate about the origin of Valentine’s Day citing paganism comes about, and while that is a different major topic altogether , there is definitely no debate needed about the importance of love and affection in general.
Valentine’s Day of course, is one of those adopted customs and traditions that many people join in on. Moving on. Here in St. Kitts-Nevis, we are predominantly a black population with of course the African descent blood flowing through our veins.
For many people, it is a cherished identity. The shade of skin colour, kinky hair, facial features and other characteristics as well as the overall heritage shape their love, pride and appreciation for who they are.
Therefore, when Black History Month comes around, there is a special emphasis for the month-long occasion in acknowledgement and celebration of who they are. There are so many accomplishments that we can point to as a black people which highlight the many strides-both past and presentwe have made to the human race in so many fields such as medicine, technology, cosmetology and art.
Now, our emotions of showing love and showcasing pride for us as a people should not be based on a calendar. Simply put, this should be our way of life. In a perfect world, violence would not exist but the reality is that good and evil co-exists.
For example, instances of black on black crimes are affecting societies around the world. ‘Why are our black brothers killing each other?’ is a common question. As a global community, it is good that there is collective togetherness in observance in the month of February year after year in expressing positive emotions.
Now if you think this editorial piece would have targeted straight away the topic of the recent homicides then I must share with you that it was intentionally not done so at the start. Why? You may ask. Well, as much as our society is heartbroken, frustrated and angry, we need to understand that as a people and a race, we can and need to do better.
That is where the spotlight should be. The upcoming generations and generations unborn deserve better. There are chapters yet to be filled in the upcoming years about who we are as a people and society. Love is needed. The blood that flows beneath our melanted complexion must not be spilled through violence.
So cheers to the month of February and what aspects of positivity it means to you as an individual and people beyond the calendar.
