Yemmy Tekabe
During the Black History celebration at Woodson High, two students shared their thoughts about its importance with the audience. Speaking were Yemmy Tekabe and Hiroko Rose.
Yemmy Tekabe
“I’m of Ethiopian origin, and my name means ‘adorned by God’s wisdom.’ But there are three parts of me. The first is that I was born in Beijing, China. I only knew Mandarin. I didn’t know what being Ethiopian was, or what being Black was.
“The second part of me is when I moved here at age 8, with a new language and new cultures to learn. I learned more about my Ethiopian culture and about Black culture in America. I had the feeling of being different.
“This is the third part of me. I can understand the Ethiopian language of Amharic, but can’t speak it, at all. So this has made me feel like an outcast among my community, along with other reasons. The same is true for being among my American Black counterparts, at times. There’s a stigma in how to be Black among non-Black folks and how to be Black in the community, as well.
“I’m in the arts; I’ve been in theater and chorus for as long as I can remember. I know how hard it is to deal with feeling like a outsider and to be ridiculed for the passion and career I have chosen, within my own community. I’ve felt outnumbered many times.
“My identity isn’t one thing; I am many. Appreciating all parts of me makes me proud to be who I am, and that’s what I celebrate this month. That’s what my Black identity means to me. This month is [about] remembering the good and the bad. Black history is infinite, forever growing – the past, present and future. I’ve noticed that now, more than ever, the voices of the young are being muted. Older generations are turning away from us. Why?
“We hear as kids to ‘be grateful; everything is at your fingertips. You have access to bountiful knowledge with just a few clicks.’ Then how come, when we take advantage of our blessings, we’re shooed away? When you silence young, Black voices, you’ll eventually silence the young voices of all minorities.
“I ask you all to give us a chance. We’re more intelligent than you think. A chance to be heard could lead the trail to peace. Don’t let the ignorant ones blind you from the majority that cry out for help. Don’t turn away from us as if we don’t know what we speak. Don’t forget – we are history.”
Hiroko Rose
“My name is Hiroko Rose, and I’m a student representative with the Carter G Woodson student renaming committee here at Woodson. I’m proud to have been a part of my high school changing its name to honor Dr. Carter G. Woodson, the father of Black History and originator of Black History Month.
“Dr. Woodson believed that understanding one’s history was key to creating a better future. Through his work, he encouraged everyone, especially African Americans, to take pride in their heritage, to embrace their history and to teach it to others.
“As a junior at Woodson High, I recognize that many of my peers may feel disconnected from the past, especially when we are learning about it in ways that often seem distant and disconnected from our own lives. But it’s crucial to realize that history is a living, breathing part of our present. Every person who contributed to the shaping of our country – whether through acts of courage, leadership or innovation – still influences our world today.
“As part of the committee, we worked to educate our peers through artwork, stories, presentations and activities. Dr. Woodson’s work shows us that history is not just something that happens – it’s something that we create. He once said, ‘If you can control a man’s thinking, you do not have to worry about his actions.’
“In other words, the way we understand history influences how we approach the world around us. By understanding the struggles and triumphs of those who came before us, we gain insight into how we can build a more inclusive and just society moving forward.
“So, as we celebrate Black History Month, let’s remember that it’s not just a time to reflect on the past, but also a call to action. As the class of 2025 graduates as the first class of Carter G Woodson High School, let’s remind ourselves that history is not static. It’s still being written, and we all have a part to play. Dr. Carter G. Woodson dedicated his life to ensuring that Black history would never be overlooked. Let’s honor that legacy by continuing to learn, to teach and to build a future where all histories are recognized, celebrated and understood.”