February is Black History Month and students at Joliet West High School were able to participate in the 1st Annual Black History Read-In as a way to showcase inspirational African American authors. Students were able to choose pieces of writing by African American authors and read them on stage in the auditorium in front of their fellow peers as a way to share some inspiration with the audience.  Writing excerpts came from novels, short stories, poems, biographies, letters, songs, etc.  Some were older pieces of writing while others were current pieces, showcasing the variety in African American literature.  One young man shared an original poem he wrote himself, while another bright young lady showcased her persuasive, yet funny, original piece about stereotypes.  Both pieces were personal, yet universal. And, they definitely kept the audience’s attention.  The event was serious and educational, proudly showing that the students in the audience were very respectful and engaged in the listening process. It was definitely a successful and powerful event filled with many eloquent and meaningful words that will be remembered by those in the audience as well as those performing on stage. And the bottom line was that the overall impression, at least my own personal impression, was that all human beings should be treated with respect and dignity and be proud of being an individual. No one should be stereotyped by their race, gender, background, social status, etc.  We are all human beings and we should be proud of who we are because there is no other person like us. Don’t judge a person by the outside appearance; don’t stereotype a person or generalize an entire group or race of people.  We are all human and we all deserve love and respect; and we should all show ourselves respect.  We all Matter.  You Matter. Let’s make a difference and be more awesome!

Now, take the Challenge:  Look at the Poster below:

Pick one of the challenges, find an appropriate image, and write a 100-200 word reflection on the image.  Analyze what the image represents and how that one image can pretty much say a 1000 words. How is the image an important example of Black History Month?  Explain in detail.  Make sure you include the image in your Post.

Look at the Examples from another blog here:

Black History Month Challenge with Photos