Black History Month: A Commitment by OCOS

Black History has been a focus of OCOS throughout its thirty-two years. We believe that its study should be integrated into students' lives and the instructional curriculum of their schools and churches. OCOS Students are encouraged to read writings about Blacks and significant writings in their own words, especially to understand the thinking of our people from 1619 through 2023.

Some of those historical persons we want to include are:

• Carter Woodson
• Dr. Martin Luther King Jr
• Dr. Lerone Bennett
• Sojourner Truth
• Harriett Tubman

All need to be aware of Blacks whose Scientific and medical achievements have benefitted the health and welfare of all Americans. (Dr. Charles Drew, Dr. Percy Julian, George Washington Carver)

Historic Accomplishments

Black soldiers have participated in all US wars, especially their contribution to the Civil War that resulted in our freedom from the institution of slavery. We can utilize PBS and other stations' documentaries of Black History and achievements to help teach our young people.

The Role of Churches

The black church has been and continues to be the bedrock for the holistic development of our people. Today, in our nation's climate, I encourage our churches to teach Black History to children and families. It is especially critical in this climate of state departments of education policies to remove Black History from public school curriculum.

We affirm that knowing one's own history is critical to self-esteem, self-efficacy, self-development, and excellence in achievement for all students.