Trending Tuesday: The Assault on Black History in Public Education

It’s no secret that our schools and libraries have long served as crucial battlegrounds for the fight over history—and right now, the battle is more intense than ever. There’s an aggressive push to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, and with it comes a dangerous threat: the erasure of Black history and Black stories from the very institutions that should be celebrating them.

For decades, educators and activists have fought hard to ensure that our classrooms reflect the full, rich tapestry of American history. Black history isn’t just a footnote; it’s a core thread woven into the fabric of our collective narrative. Yet, recent policy shifts and budget cuts aimed at DEI efforts are targeting these essential lessons. Critics claim that these programs are “politically charged” or “divisive,” but when you really look at it, what’s being called into question is the very acknowledgment of the Black experience. And that’s a hard pill to swallow.

The assault on DEI in public education isn’t just about curriculum changes—it’s about a systematic attempt to whitewash our past. Removing Black history from textbooks and libraries doesn’t erase the stories; it dishonors them by denying future generations the chance to learn about the resilience, creativity, and profound contributions of Black individuals. These stories aren’t just inspiring tales; they are vital lessons in understanding injustice, fighting oppression, and celebrating triumph in the face of adversity.

What makes this attack so insidious is its subtle, creeping nature. It often comes wrapped in the language of “balance” or “objectivity,” as if including the narratives of marginalized communities somehow skews the truth. In reality, it’s the opposite: omitting these stories leads to an incomplete—and frankly, biased—understanding of history. When we strip away the Black voices from our educational spaces, we also strip away the power of critical thought and empathy. We deny students the chance to learn from past struggles and to see themselves as part of a larger, interconnected story of human perseverance.

We need to ask ourselves: What kind of society do we want to be? A society that hides its darker chapters, or one that confronts them head-on and uses them as a springboard for progress? The fight to preserve Black history is about more than just keeping old texts on library shelves—it’s about ensuring that every student sees themselves represented and respected. It’s about equipping the next generation with the knowledge and critical thinking skills to challenge injustice wherever it may appear.

As educators, librarians, and community leaders, we must stand up against these efforts to erase our shared history. We need to advocate for curricula that reflect the diverse narratives that have shaped our nation. And as readers and citizens, it’s our duty to support initiatives that keep these stories alive. The future of our democracy depends on an informed citizenry—one that understands its roots and values the contributions of every community.

So this Trending Tuesday, let’s shine a spotlight on the importance of Black history in public education. Let’s reject the notion that diversity is a threat and instead celebrate it as the foundation of a vibrant, inclusive society. Because when we preserve and honor every part of our past, we empower ourselves to build a better, more equitable future.