Black History Month: “My identity is rooted in both struggle and strength.”

Growing up in Ireland, my parents taught me and my two brothers that we would experience racism almost every day of our lives. They prepared us for being judged by our skin colour, treated differently in public spaces, and hearing slurs like the N-word used toward us. These conversations were difficult, but they were necessary. They were about understanding the reality of being Black and a minority in today’s world.

 

That is why Black History Month matters to me. It acknowledges the long history of oppression and injustice Black people have faced, while also recognizing our resilience. Despite everything, Black people have continued to create culture, influence society, and build spaces where our voices can exist freely.

 

Music is one of those spaces for me, but it is not the only one. Genres like R&B, soul, and hip-hop, all created by Black people, allow real expression of emotion, pain, and identity. Artists like SZA and Frank Ocean use music to tell honest stories, and their work reminds me that Black voices can be vulnerable, reflective, and powerful. But Black excellence goes far beyond music. Black inventors, scientists, doctors, and activists have changed the world through innovation and discovery. From medical advancements to inventions, Black minds have shaped the way we live today. That reminds me that our contributions are not limited to entertainment, they are foundational to society itself.

 

As a Black person, Black History Month is personal. My identity is rooted in both struggle and strength. But the reality is that because of the world’s negative thoughts around being Black, some Black people grow up feeling like they are a disgrace, like a curse to the world, or like they are worth less than others. Those messages, whether spoken or implied, can deeply affect how we see ourselves.

 

Personally, being Black can be hard, because public perception is something I cannot control. Stereotypes, false assumptions, and small jokes or comments may seem insignificant to some people, but they affect us in different ways. Some carry that weight quietly, others speak up, and some turn these moments into opportunities to educate, depending on how they were raised around these situations.

 

Black History Month is a time when Black people are recognized for our contributions and endurance, but it should not be limited to one month. Black is beauty. Black is excellence. Black is bold. And it should be recognized not only this month, but every month.