Black Studies Relevance

Like all other cultures, Black Studies has a lot of information that can be learned. I believe that an African/African American/Black Studies curriculum is relevant because it is a different culture that people should know. There is so much history in the African American experience that it should be taught. In the textbook, Karenga states that “Black Studies is an important contribution to humanity’s understanding itself because African people are the fathers and mothers of both humanity and human civilization” (pg. 21). I do think this is a bold statement, but does have some truth. The lives of African Americans have suffered through so much and are an important part to learning more about our society and how to make it better, as well as learning about the past and how the culture began. There are many other contributions that a curriculum of Black Studies brings. The relevance is stated, by Karenga, as being “a contribution to the rescue and reconstruction of Black history and humanity” (pg. 23). This statement allows the curriculum to bring knowledge to people and the hope of truth to people to help bring change. It is important to know about a culture different than mine and the sacrifices made and life altering experiences Blacks went through. Black Studies also is “a contribution to the development of a socially conscious Black intelligentsia and professional stratum” (pg. 24). This contribution allows intellects to help improve society for the present and especially the future. The experiences from the past can help us as a society learn from our mistakes and take what happened to make our future a better one. We have all had our rough times, but it is important to become knowledgeable about what has happened to those in the past so we can have a better tomorrow.

1. Name: Kelsey Hughes
2. What state are you from? Texas
3. Do you have any siblings? Yes, a twin brother and an older brother
4. What is your classification? I am a sophomore
5. Have you decided on a major? Yes, I am majoring in Elementary Education
6. How many hours are you taking this semester? 16 hours
7. Why are you taking this class? I am interested in the African American culture and I want to learn more about it!
8. What was your favorite homework assignment? I can't say that I have always enjoyed doing homework, but I love anything that allows me to be creative
9. What was your least favorite homework assignment? Writing papers
10. How do you feel about working in groups? I have always enjoyed working in groups. It doesn't bother me, unless I'm the only one doing anything.
11. What is your favorite type of music? List your favorite song and can I find it on youtube or Itunes? I love oldies or anything I can dance to. I like "Electric Guitar" by Chris Brown and I believe it's on iTunes.
12. Last movie you saw at a theatre? Twilight
13. Who is the new secretary of state? Did you have to google it?Hilary Clinton. No, I didn't google it.
14. Do you like public speaking? Not really. I am taking a class this semester, though, so hopefully this answer will change.
15. Have you ever written or posted to a blog? No, not one like this
16. The three most important issues facing the United States in 2009? War, economy, and health care
17. What is your Philosophy of Life? Live like there's no tomorrow
18. Do you have any extracurricular activities on campus? Do you work? No, I don't have any extracurricular activities and I don't work.
19. Who is Jeanette Davidson? Paul Bell? Amanda Holloway and VinceWinston? I honestly have no clue
20. Your favorite thing about the University of Oklahoma. The atmosphere. The people here are very respectful and I love the school spirit.
21. List one characteristic of your favorite teacher/instructor. A teacher who is passionate about teaching