It’s time to fill in the gaps of American history and include more black achievements.

February is Black Heritage Month, a celebration of what blacks have added to American history that has been left out through the years.

Once again a pitch needs to be made for participation. And once again it’s to prove that the activities celebrating this event are not in vain.

A basic student excuse is not enough time. OK, hitting the books need to be a primary concern for all students, that’s how we get an education.

But there is more than one reason to attend a university—experience. And staying cooped up in a residence hall room or apartment is not the way to get it.

Although some students and parts of society are afraid to accept diversity as a part of the American culture, turning a blind eye toward the issue is just plain ignorance.

Unfortunately, ignorance has been a ruling force in society for quite some time. In order to combat this, people must become aware.

Fortunately, there’s Black Heritage Month along with the many other events planned throughout the year to create some kind of awareness of different historical cultures.

So close some books and open your eyes to what you’ve been missing or ignoring in the past. Ignorance is a double-edged sword, protecting us one minute and injuring us the next.