February…More Than Black History Month

History is not separate stories—it is one shared narrative. When we honor every chapter, we gain a fuller understanding of who we are and who we are called to become.

February is more than Black History Month; it is American History. I meditated on this thought as I was formulating my response to my son’s question… “Why do we need one month each year to recognize Black people?”

Every February, we observe Black History Month. It is both an honor and a sobering reminder that we still separate Americans and our shared history by race. The truth is Black history is no different than American history, it’s just not acknowledged in the same way. Consider what this nation would be historically without the contributions of African Americans who built communities and economies; fought in every war America has won; shaped music, art, food, culture; and transformed this country with their courage, innovations, and convictions. Black history stories deserve recognition not only in February, but all year long.

And so do the stories of every other cultural community in America.

No group is excluded from this recognition and celebration of our history. I hold the same commitment for all communities whose histories are overlooked or minimized. We may attempt to rewrite history books, but that does not change history. America’s story is not singular, and neither are its people. It is full of diversity just as God intended for the world He created. (Read 'Diversity and Love - God's Creation')

America’s constitutional ideals often stand in tension with our nation’s shortcomings in justice, recognition, and equality. Yes, our national history contains shameful acts that require repentance. It also holds stories of triumph, unity, and hope. We cannot erase the ugly without devaluing the good. All of it must be understood together.

Here is one thing I really love about Scripture: the Bible does not sanitize events and heroes, nor does it present a flawless people. Scripture shows believers with their failures and faith, pain and redemption, darkness and light. God permits us to see different sides of the story so we learn and grow to be more like Him.

Our personal and collective stories are like stained glass; they are made of unique pieces that create something beautiful when they are put together. This picture is the vision of God’s kingdom. There are differences and we love people anyway because our diverse stories are God stories too. It is our testimony of God’s faithfulness through different seasons of adversity and victory.

What are we so afraid of that we cling to racial division, classism, and hostility?

Honoring our diverse roots does not diminish anyone. When we learn from each other, we increase in wisdom and our understanding of the creative God some claim to serve.

Throughout this year, we are invited to pause, remember, and show honor for different groups of people who define moments in our shared history. March recognizes women who shape families, communities, and future leaders. In April and May we acknowledge the ingenuity, cultural expressions, and creativity of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities.

Juneteenth reminds us of the true meaning of freedom and the long road to equality. Hispanic and Latino Heritage Month celebrates a vibrant community rooted in tradition displayed through food, music, and artistry. In November, we pay tribute to Native American and Indigenous peoples, the original inhabitants of this land. Their resilience, sacrifices, and enduring spirit deserve our deepest respect and gratitude. Every cultural group is an array of God’s diverse creation and God called everything He created “good.”

We can reject fear, hatred, and division. Instead, we can choose to embrace courage, love, and connection. You have a choice in your daily thoughts and interactions, and your choices reveal the real you.

What leadership examples are you setting in your conversations at home, practices in places of worship, and policies in the workforce? Will you be intentional about establishing relationships with people in communities you do not know? Maybe they need to learn from you, maybe you need to learn from them.

Intellectual growth happens when curiosity replaces assumptions and respect replaces fear. Your leadership example matters during these tension points. Leaders who value bringing people together create stronger, more effective teams. On the other hand, divisive leadership is selfish and ultimately serves no one. It erodes trust, fractures teams, and leads to degradation not progress.

Progress always costs something. Without discomfort there is no progress. Without progress there is no growth. We must be willing to learn and grow from lessons in our cultural history. There is no new evil or new good…everything has been done before but have we learned the lessons?

Will you choose to love all of God’s creation or will you choose division and hatred?

February does not make Black people special. God already created each of us to be special to Him. Instead of celebrating just one month a year, let us commit to learning about all people, all months of every year.

We are facing a time of high tension, constant feuds, and people are carrying stones. Each day, we get to decide whether to use our stones to build others up or tear others down.

Which choice will you make?

How will you lead in the time of adversity?

Subscribe to Emissary Way