Black History Month provides an excellent opportunity to dispel some of the myths about black Americans and their struggle for equality.

Oppression of black people is not confined to places like South Africa. In the last three years, 10 racial incidents at University Park have been reported to the state House Educational Committee -- more than from any other university in the state.

Last year 10 white men allegedly verbally assaulted five black women. Racial posters directed at then Undergraduate Student President Seth Williams were distributed across campus last February.

In a country where freedom is taken for granted, we sometimes forget the cost paid to achieve it. The continuing racial incidents against blacks and other underrepresented groups on campus and throughout the United States suggest we have much to learn.

Those who think black students are making unnecessary demands upon the University can challenge themselves this month to try to understand another point of view. It is not likely that many people support massive oppression of black people, but in failing to educate ourselves we condone just that.

The contributions black Americans have made to this country and elsewhere are innumerable, but they often go unnoticed. Shirley Chisolm, the first black U.S. congresswoman, receives less attention in history books than her white counterparts. The slave narratives of Frederick Douglass are not honored as extensively as works by Nathaniel Hawthorne and Mark Twain.

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. Events are scheduled throughout the month, including the following:

-- Dr. La Francis Rodgers-Rose will speak on black male/female relationships at 7 Thursday night in the Paul Robeson Cultural Center Auditorium.

-- The African-American and Caribbean band Sankofa/African will perform at 8 Friday night in Schwab Auditorium.

-- The film Eyes on the Prize: Bridge to Freedom will be shown at 2 Sunday afternoon in 4 Carnegie.

Participating in Black History Month is crucial to integrating that history throughout our education and our lives.