Roland Martin on Black History Month 2011
Coining himself the "fresh perspective of the 21st century," political analyst and award-winning journalist Roland Martin continues to give voice to our community on his blog, the Tom Joyner Morning Show and on CNN.
Here, Martin shares what the most powerful moment in black history is to him and discusses the legacy he wishes to leave for his children.
Black Voices: What was the most pivotal moment in history that impacted you and why?
Roland Martin: I can't speak on what happened prior to my birth, but I would certainly say it was the Million Man March. That event spoke volumes about the image of black men, but also how the planning of the event was so far off the radar of mainstream media.
One million black men came to Washington, D.C., not because of mainstream media, but because of the unique power and influence of the Black Press - radio, newspapers and magazines.
It was a glorious day in 1995.
BV: Do you celebrate black history?
RM: I do celebrate Black History Month, but I don't only focus on it in February. I believe that the contributions of African Americans should truly be focused on 365 days a year.
BV: Did you celebrate black history as a youth? How?
RM: I did celebrate Black History Month as a child and always enjoyed learning about the unique aspects of our culture and the impact on the United States and the world. We celebrated the same way [as most]: programs, TV viewing, reading, all the traditional methods.
BV: Do you think black history month is important?
RM: Black History Month is important because it can serve as a reminder of our history, but it should also be seen as a starting point for some. Let the month be the appetizer on the way to a full-course meal.
BV: What would you say to people who say black history month is no longer relevant?
RM: I tell them imagine us without Black History Month. Until we are fully recognized for our contributions, Black History Month must be a mainstay in our lives.
BV: What do you hope your children (or children of our future) can take away from black history month and your career as a journalist?
RM: I want my nieces and nephews to come away with the fact that African Americans are more than what is presented by my colleagues in the media. And we are more than Dr. Martin L. King, Rosa Parks, Oprah and President Barack Obama.
My job as a journalist is to expand that perspective beyond today's boundaries.
Posted By: DAVID JOHNSON
Saturday, February 19th 2011 at 12:40AM
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