Why We Celebrate Black History Month as the Descendants of Ham
THE GENESIS OF THE DECENDANTS OF HAM
By Apostle Eric F. Ricks

As many people know, Carter Godwin Woodson, (1875-1950), an American historian, born in Buckingham County, Virginia is credited for starting the recognition of Black History. In addition, he organized the first annual Negro History Week in February 1926. February was selected because it coincided with the birth dates of Frederick Douglas and Abraham Lincoln [as a symbol of unity]. In the early 70’s it was changed to Black History Week, and in 1976, it was officially established as Black History Month. Woodson devoted his life to making “the world see the Negro as a participant rather than as a lay figure in history.”

In 1995, I felt led of the Lord to expand the observance of Black History Month to include in the celebration, recognizing of all members of the Descendants of Ham in our church. Each would have a time to present his or her nationality for the purpose of educating and for unifying peoples in America. A former member of our church Julia Aquaah-Harrison from Ghana, West Africa, wrote a play that epitomized our mission: “People United to Accomplish a Common Purpose and a Common Goal.” Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 states: “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor for if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, he has no one to help him up. Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; but how can one be warm alone? Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken.”

As Christians, we are not to encourage or be apathetic about prejudice among the descendants of Ham. Our divine mandates are clear. First, according to God’s grace, we are to strive aggressively and honestly for reconciliation and healing among us, and to unify our people by divine love, sincerity, knowledge, and acceptance. Second, we are to equally recognize, honor, celebrate, and respect the accomplishments of all members of the body of Christ past and present, particularly the descendants of Ham. Third, to have racial and ethic pride, that is not wrong, it is what makes us unique, but have it without claiming superiority over other peoples. Fourth, to spend less time on discussing problems (circle of concerns), and more time implementing solutions (circle of influence).

I believe that God has united us to achieve for Him things that are: common and uncommon, ordinary and extraordinary, possible and impossible. Our first theme was a question spoken sarcastically by Cain to God, "Am I my brother's keeper?" I respond unequivocally, categorically, and without reservation, YES, WE ARE! Christ’s command for us to love each other is the gospel of inclusion of all and not exclusion or seclusion of anyone.