February is halfway over, yet there has been little attention given locally to an important recognition that transcends the labels that divide us simply by focusing on a shared history that brings us closer together.

Designated as Black History Month, this month is something that all of us should recognize, regardless of our race, creed or color.

We should pay attention in order to honor the past and educate ourselves and our children for the future.

The entire recognition is designed simply to give much-needed attention to the accomplishments and contributions black Americans have made throughout the years, many of which have been marginalized and minimalized.

Ultimately, the importance of a recognition like this is so that our youth — of all colors — know the history and heritage that our nation was founded upon.

Although he wasn’t talking about Black History Month, George Santayana — a Spanish-American philosopher, essayist, poet and novelist — may have best summed up the importance of recognizing where we came from when he said, “Those who cannot remember the past, are condemned to repeat it.”

Our nation has come so far toward equality and rights for everyone, but we must never forget the trials and tribulations of the journey that brought our country to this point.