February 1st marks the beginning of Black History month, honoring the legacy, achievements and contributions of Black Americans in the United States. At Marriotts Ridge High School, students and staff are coming together to celebrate with events and activities.
At MRHS, Black History month is celebrated with a variety of events and activities that honor the legacy of Black Americans and bring the school community together. It’s also important for students at MRHS to be involved with Black History Month.
“Everybody participating in school events, BSU spirit week and people sharing information that they know about Black history,” said sophomore, and Black Student Union culture liaison, Morgan Ritter.
Highlighting ways that students at school can be more involved with Black history during Black History Month, Ritter also emphasizes the importance of understanding diverse cultures and histories. Understanding Black history and widening one’s world view can be accomplished by participating in MRHS’s Black Student Union (BSU) events.
“It’s important because I think it’s important to have an understanding of other people’s culture and history. Black History has shaped so many things in society today. Everybody should know about it because it’s very important to be educated,” said Ritter.
Black History isn’t just a collection of past events, it’s a foundational thing that has influenced our current society.
With the idea that the celebration of black History shouldn’t be confined to a single month, Ritter also said, “We can celebrate Black History [year round] at school by sharing information and participating in BSU activities. It’s so important during February, but keep that energy year round.”
One event hosted by MRHS to celebrate Black History is the Book Tasting event that took place on February 14th, 2025. Hosted by the Black Student Achievement Program (BSAP), the Book Tasting event included discovering powerful stories by Black authors that highlight Black excellence and culture.
This perspective shows the belief that the rich legacy of Black History is an ongoing source of learning and aspiration. Ritter advocates for a sustained commitment to cultural education regarding Black History and engagement through the academic school year.
Ms. Milton, the Black Student Achievement Program leader, captured an inclusive vision for Black History month. “I think Black History month is for any student who is American or who is a citizen of the world, right?”
This perspective is rooted in the idea that “all of history is our history that is shared,” reminding us that Black History is not just the story of one community, but a legacy that belongs to everyone. Ritter continued, noting that “everyone showing interest in learning more about black history at Marriott’s Ridge would be helpful,” which underscores the importance of active engagement from the entire school community. She further added that contributions to the celebration can be as simple as “a movie or a book or a magazine article”—even small ideas, such as discussing moments like Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl performance, can spark meaningful conversation and deepen our collective understanding.
Black History Month is worth speaking about year long. Marriotts Ridge has cultivated a space at school in which place history can be celebrated, and participating strengthens community.