[ladylib]

I believe a black man invented the traffic light. I also think that a black man developed blood transfusions. If this is the case, are these men's accomplishments being taught to black school children?

[Amelia]

If this is the case, are these men's accomplishments being taught to black school children?

Well, sure they are. During Black History Month.

Of course, there's also the implicit message that these men aren't generally honored for their achievements, and we don't normally hear about them, because of our racist society - so what's the use?

When I teach about George Washington Carver, I like to "compare and contrast" the obstacles he faced in his achievements, and how he overcame them, with the advantages my students now have. Sometimes, some of them seem to "get it".