FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- February is Black History Month, an annual celebration of achievements by black Americans and a time for recognizing the role of African Americans in U.S. history.
Fairchild recognized the impact and accomplishments of black Americans by hosting numerous educational events throughout the month in honor of this year’s theme, “The Crisis in Black Education.”
The Black History Month committee partnered with Michael Anderson Elementary to host volunteers who read Black History inspired books throughout the month and discussed relevant issues with the students. The committee also hosted a cornbread cook-off and awarded prizes to numerous competitors during the observance luncheon.
“Diversity and inclusion are force multipliers required for our nation’s security,” said Col. Ryan Samuelson, 92nd Air Refueling Wing commander. “Air Force decision making and operational capabilities are enhanced by diversity and inclusion in our force. Innovation comes not simply from great thought, but from greatly diverse thought.”
The observance luncheon highlighted black culture with different foods and various performances including dances and monologues. During the luncheon, Stephy Nobles-Beans, coordinator for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for Campus Ministries at Whitworth University, Spokane, and Black History Month observance lunch guest speaker, discussed the importance of improving black education and changing the education narrative for all students.
“There is a crisis in education, but it will not deter us. It will not make us weaker, it will only make us stronger,” Nobles-Beans said. “Because of the shoulders we stand on, this legacy will live on and the narrative will change. If we don’t change the story, the crisis in education will continue.”
The Black Film Festival is scheduled for Feb. 25 and Feb. 26 at the base theater. The festival will highlight films produced by and starring African Americans.
For more information on Black History Month visit www.nationalmuseum.af.mil or call 247-4878.