There’s a lot happening this weekend that warrants attention, but there is one thing that should get more attention than the rest.

No, it’s not the Super Bowl, regardless of its popularity or historical aspect, etc. etc.

We’re talking about the start of African-American Heritage Month.

Do we watch the Super Bowl? Of course we do it’s entertaining. But don’t let the Super Bowl wash away the fact that this weekend kicks off African-American Heritage Month.

There’s a lot to think about and be grateful about during African-American Heritage Month but there’s still a lot that this country needs to recognize, learn about and understand.

One of the best ways to help yourself and to open your mind in order to realize the constant struggles (which is a gross understatement) that African-Americans face on a daily basis, is to participate in events on campus during this month.

This is how we see it: if you preach diversity, inclusion and peace then go participate in the events on campus that are lined up everyday this month.

This year’s theme for African-American Heritage Month on campus is “Black Lives Matter: A Movement , not a Moment,” and the first event is the EIUnity Diversity Conference that kicks off Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Martin Luther King Jr. University Union.

Go show support and go prove that you respect Black lives and prove that they matter in this country and on this campus because right now they don’t.

Ask as many questions as you need, be open and willing to understand what the events mean and most importantly be willing to learn.

Please, just think about.

It’s been a little over 50 years since the Civil Rights Movement and Black Lives are still seeing racism, Black Lives are still seeing hate crimes against them, Black Lives are still losing their lives just because of the color of their skin.

Why is this ignored? Why is this argued over?

Also, for the record, Black Lives Matter, just saying.

The editorial staff can be reached at 581-2812 or [email protected].