Anna Holstein
February 24, 2025
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. (WMUL-FM) — Huntington is no stranger to February’s Black History Month, in these uncertain times regarding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Huntington’s own Carter G. Woodson left a legacy of involvement and inclusion as the “Father of Black History.”
Dr. Cicero M. Fain, Marshall University Assistant Provost, said Woodson is a giant in the field of Black History. “For him to have started Black History, well then Negro History Week, now Black History Month, the association for the study of African American History and life, and his many other endeavors to insert African American history, not to replace white history, but to insert African American history is unquestionably still needed” Fain said.
Indulging in more recent history, Society of Black Scholars member Alexus Steele said her mother is the most significant person in her life when it comes to black history. “Hearing that my mom was able to not only do it but be able to achieve such high things and go onto college and get her master’s degree, it was really inspiring.” Steele said.
Regarding the national, state and on campus controversy over Diversity, Equity and Inclusion efforts, both Fain and Steele plan to continue to honor black history.
“I’m still a citizen and citizens have rights,” Fain said. “I also have a great number of strategic pathways that I can pursue and engage in that will continue to elevate black history and its continuing significance.”
“Even if we might not be able to teach it or do things that we would typically be doing, that doesn’t mean that it’s not our responsibility as individuals in the community to do our part in educating our peers and our family members and still just showing that recognition, even if it can’t be at that state level,” Steele said.