Black History Month 2002 focuses on racism in America

Jet, Feb 4, 2002

The Association for the Study of African American Life and History, Inc. (ASALH) chose the theme "The Color Line Revisited: Is Racism Dead?" for 2002 in light of critical issues facing the United States, most notably the September 11 terrorist attacks, that underscore the need for national unity and global peace and cooperation.

Ever since scholar and civil fights activist W.E.B. DuBois identified the color line as the problem of the 20th century, racism has been America's most enduring dilemma, ASALH officials say, noting the current national attitude about racism is "only slightly modified in form and veneer."

The ASALH calls for the nation to remember the words of President Thomas Jefferson who, more than 200 years ago, concluded that it is impossible for the majority of Americans to retain either "manners" or "morals" in a society where one group is permitted to trample on the rights of others.

The organization also challenges America to recognize the lasting impact of slavery on Blacks as crucial to achieving national unity.

"Our heads of state may now see clearly that defining slavery as a crime against humanity," the ASALH says, "and acknowledging the debt to African-Americans represent merely a necessary step on the road to `One America.'"

The ASALH was founded by Dr. Carter G. Woodson in 1915 to promote and preserve African-American history and culture. Woodson established Negro History Week, which is now celebrated as Black History Month.