A shameful past

Possible book ban would hide part of U.S. history that must be told

Unfortunately, it was, and sometimes still is, common to refer to an entire race by this name, and nothing can change that fact as far as history goes.

Huck knew no other way than to call a black person a "nigger," as unfortunate as that is.

But what is even more unfortunate is the way the Pennsylvania National Association for the Advancement of Colored People is reacting to the book. The NAACP is calling to remove the book from lists of required reading in schools.

The NAACP wants to ban the book because it believes that teachers improperly introduce the book by not explaining its historical context. This is a valid concern. But this possible problem is easily alleviated and not a valid reason to ban meritorious literature or hide America's past.

The story of Huck Finn can easily confuse students about race relations and make them feel uncomfortable. After all, the protagonist calls his best friend one of the ugliest names in history and reminds readers of their shameful past.

But that does not mean the literature should be ignored. That is the reason it should be read, for history must be remembered and not repeated.

In addition, young readers should be exposed to this period and multicultural literature that makes them feel uncomfortable. They will need to deal with people of different races and attitudes when they arrive in college or the real world and need to be prepared. Literature is a useful tool.

The NAACP's reaction to this book is surprising because it can help us remember the past to create a new future.