Linda Stamato, in a recent commentary, raised questions about the future of Black History Month and its role in American society. She reflected on how long the country will continue to set aside time to recognize the achievements of Black Americans and confront the history of slavery, discrimination, and hardship.
Stamato noted that Carter Woodson, historian and founder of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History in 1915, was a key figure in establishing Negro History Week in 1926, which later became Black History Month. Woodson aimed to make Black history visible and insisted on acknowledging both achievements and challenges faced by Black Americans.
She observed that as efforts for greater visibility gained momentum, opposition also increased. Stamato wrote that some groups have attempted to promote an alternative narrative centered on white supremacy, receiving support from Donald Trump and his followers. “They attempt to rewrite history for their own purposes. In doing so, they often ignore or disparage Black Americans.”
According to Stamato, there has been growing resistance against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Critics have recast these policies as discriminatory toward white people, intensifying grievances among those who feel excluded. Stamato stated: “Explaining, and at times defending, the values embodied in the phrase Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is not for the faint-hearted. During Black History Month, however, I feel an obligation to speak.”
She highlighted historical examples of discrimination such as redlining and barriers to credit or home ownership that DEI programs sought to address. However, she pointed out that these efforts have met with resistance and ridicule.
“If special advantages to aid access are no longer permitted through affirmative action or targeted support, so be it,” Stamato said. “The focus must then shift. We must oppose any efforts to deny access or manipulate circumstances — including voting districts — to block opportunities for Black Americans to engage, compete, thrive and serve the nation.”
Stamato described ongoing attempts by government entities at various levels to limit opportunities for marginalized communities: “Vehement attacks on D.E.I. barely mask the racist views of some proponents.” She argued that descendants of enslaved people continue resisting such measures today.
The commentary reviewed debates during Reconstruction after the Civil War regarding reintegration of seceded states and protection of freed slaves’ rights. Amendments passed during this period guaranteed freedom and civil rights; African American men voted and held public office for the first time.
Stamato referenced data showing widespread trust in museums as nonpartisan educational sources: “Ninety-two percent of adults view them as nonpartisan sources of education,” she wrote citing Wilkening Consulting findings. Caro News reports that museums are considered highly trusted institutions by most Americans.
Libraries were similarly described as among the most trusted public institutions due largely to their independence.
Despite progress made over decades, Stamato emphasized ongoing challenges: “The impulse to shape America into a narrower, whiter vision remains a constant thorn in the republic’s side.”
She concluded with support for continuing Black History Month: “All the more reason Black History Month must endure… America is a multiracial democracy. It is better for being exactly that.”
The Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy at Rutgers University recognizes distinguished alumni through its Hall of Fame established in 2013 as well as annual achievement awards since 1994 (official website). The school advances social impact through research centers focusing on community development among other areas (official website). It has received national rankings including third place for its graduate urban planning program (official website) while operating within Rutgers University (official website). The school emphasizes fostering inclusive communities at multiple levels (official website), under Dean Stuart Shapiro since 2023 (official website).