A controversial hashtag, #WhiteHistoryMonth, has gone viral on social media platforms such as Twitter and TikTok during February, which is celebrated as Black History Month in the United States.
The hashtag, which appears to be a sarcastic response to the recognition of the historical contributions and struggles of African Americans, has been used by some users to mock, trivialize, or deny the existence of racism and oppression against Black people.
Many users have expressed their anger and frustration at the hashtag, calling it insensitive, ignorant, and offensive. Some have pointed out that every month is essentially White History Month, as the dominant narrative of American history has been shaped by and centered on white people, often at the expense of marginalized groups. Others have shared examples of the achievements and challenges of Black people that are often overlooked or erased by mainstream history.
Some users have also highlighted the irony and hypocrisy of the hashtag, as it coincides with the ongoing controversy over the teaching of critical race theory and African American history in schools. Critical race theory is an academic framework that examines how systemic racism and white supremacy have influenced the laws, policies, and institutions of the United States. Some conservative politicians and activists, such as Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, have opposed the inclusion of critical race theory and African American history in the curriculum, claiming that they are divisive, anti-American, and indoctrinate students with a sense of guilt or victimhood based on their race.
However, critics of this stance have argued that critical race theory and African American history are essential for a more accurate, inclusive, and honest understanding of the past and present of the United States. They have also accused the opponents of these topics of censoring and whitewashing history, and of perpetuating the myths and stereotypes that fuel racism and inequality.
The debate over the hashtag and the history curriculum reflects the deep and persistent racial divisions and tensions that plague the United States, especially in the wake of the Black Lives Matter protests, the Capitol riot, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
While some users have tried to use humor or sarcasm to counter the hashtag, others have called for more education and dialogue to address the root causes and consequences of racism and discrimination.
As one user tweeted, "White History Month is not a thing. Black History Month is not enough. We need to learn and celebrate the history of all people, all year round."
