Their names remain largely absent from academic courses and political discourse: Dr. Charles Drew, Paul Robeson, Sojourner Truth, Fannie Lou Hamer. Professors often give the contributions of Shirley Chisolm, the first black U.S. congresswoman, less attention than those of her white male counterparts. The slave narratives of Frederick Douglass are downplayed in American literature courses that instead extensively honor authors such as Nathanial Hawthorne, Benjamin Franklin and Edgar Allan Poe.

From Emancipation to the Harlem Renaissance to the Civil Rights Movement and beyond, black Americans' achievements have been mere mentions rather than information incorporated into the paragraphs of America's history texts. The country's patriotic may claim the United States is a melting pot, but its institutions still promote mostly European culture.

Until the role of black Americans is woven accurately onto the pages of this country's history, setting aside the 28 days of February to celebrate black history is necessary. The celebration, however, should not be brief. Rather, the talents and abilities need to become an integral part of the remaining 11 months.

Black History Month originated in 1926 when Carter Woodson, the editor of the Journal of Negro History initiated Black History Week. Woodson had a reputation of highlighting the accomplishments of people of African descent to create pride, respect and recognition.

Others of diverse ethnic backgrounds need to educate themselves on black history and black culture to gain a broader look at the way the country was shaped. The lack of a balanced education in American history affects the way men and women relate to one another today, as evidenced in the racism which festers on college campuses across the country.

Recent events at Penn State, including the distribution of flyers attacking Undergraduate Student Government President Seth Williams' race and the harassment of five black women by 10 white men shouting racial slurs, demonstrate the lack of understanding between races, often based on ignorance.

The events of racial and ethnic intimidation in the University community are the direct result of misunderstanding between races. A desire to remain ethnocentric and a stubborn resistance to learning and understanding others' cultures have caused recent division between black students and others in the community. Reactionary responses, uninformed opinions and apathy have perpetuated anger and frustration between students.

It is important, then, that people pay more than lip service to the accomplishments of this nation's black men and women. During Black History Month, various departments within the University sponsor events to raise the awareness of students and staff. Attending these events will honor the celebration and also enlighten students and staff about cultural differences.

Until history texts equally recognize the contributions of Americans of all cultural and racial backgrounds, education will be devoid of diversity and students will continue to be deprived of a liberal education. Until the country acknowledges contributions of black Americans together with other Americans in the classroom, a separate month must serve as a reminder of their work.