Perspective: A WIS Editorial - Black History Month - wistv.com - Columbia, South Carolina |

February has been designated as Black History month, a time when attention is focused on the experiences, accomplishments, arts and culture of African Americans. Because we don't think the celebration of Black history should be limited to just one month, each year WIS partners with AT&T to create the South Carolina African American History calendar. It showcases  outstanding individual each month who are role models for all people. They overcame adversity, personified integrity and made great contributions to their communities, their families and their country.

There are many Black History events  in the Midlands this month.  There is lots going on at Benedict College. A free screening of The Freedom Riders, a PBS documentary; the Harambee Festival;  and a play called "The Meeting" about a fictional meeting between Martin Luther King, Jr. and Malcolm X. The northeast branch of Richland County Library presents Recovering the Past, a discussion  about the struggles and contributions of Blacks in our State, and Patti Austin and Ramsey Lewis appear at the Koger Center later this month in a "Legends of" Concert benefiting the Auntie Karen Foundation.

If you are African American, get out and celebrate your history.  If you are not, get out and learn more about your African American neighbors.

 That's my perspective.  Let me hear from you.