OnePoll conducted a study that showed most Americans think civil rights have regressed for the last five years. The survey of 1000 non-white and 1000 white Americans looked into how they commemorated black history month.
Americans celebrate Black History Month
The respondents stated that they gathered with their friends and family, participated in celebrations, and watched documentaries on black people. They also took the time to honor prominent black people, including Maya Angelou and Barrack Obama.
However, 68% of the participants believed there was a regression in civil rights. About 64% of them expressed disappointment about the voting rights bill being struck down by the senate.
While the respondents were disappointed in the state of racial politics, they still emphasized black history month, with 59% celebrating the achievements of black people in February. About 78% of African Americans celebrated back history month. However, other races also celebrated the month. These included white Americans (50%) and Alaska natives (83%).
Americans wished they had learned black history as children
About 69% of the respondents wished black history was taught as children. Approximately 66% of white Americans, 80% African Americans, and 83% of Alaska natives agreed with this sentiment.
Many Americans (71%) wished they’d learned more about other cultures as children. This seems to be why 75% see the importance of learning about black history in the workplace or at schools. Another 77% think that the school curriculum should also include other cultures that have contributed to American history.
The parents surveyed waste 72% of the respondents. About 87% had spoken to their children about respecting other cultures. Another 81% appreciated how school taught their children about significant black figures.
Among employed Americans, 62% stated that their workplaces commemorated black history month. About 75% stated that employers had brought historians and authors to the office during the month. While 76% said their jobs tried to be inclusive and diverse, they admitted bosses could improve.
The best way to learn black history seemed to be through podcasts (45%), books (50%), documentaries (61%), and other forms of media. However, others preferred rallies (33%), charities (36%), and seminars (40%).
