By Quierra Luck, hornets.com
Black History Month is a time of reflection for many of us. Black History Month, which was initially a week founded by Dr. Carter G. Woodson in 1926, was dedicated to celebrating the culture, excellence and even sometimes forgotten heroes of American History. Dr. Woodson noted that “African American contributions were overlooked, ignored and even suppressed by the writers of history,” so he took initiative to create something that would become a habit and hopefully a learning experience on a rich, yet sometimes painful, African American past.
For some of us, certain subjects in school aren’t as fun as the others and lets face it, history isn’t at the top for most us, and that includes growing Hornets star, Jeremy Lamb. Lamb is dedicated to being better. As a child, he would shoot around with his dad before school, making sure that his game reflected his mindset – always ready. But this time, I wanted to speak with Jeremy about something bigger than basketball; a game where someone like him was first drafted only 66 years ago. Jeremy discussed not only his appreciation for black leaders, but a hero of his own, his mom, for making him watch “Roots”.
Q: Growing Up, how did you learn about Black History Month?
JL: Growing up, I was always the type saying “I hate school, I hate reading”, different variations like that and my mom would get so made at us especially when we didn’t even want to learn our own personal history. So she sat us down and made us watch “Roots.” Seeing everything that transpired in Roots really affected me. What people went through, I can’t even imagine.
Q: Between watching “Roots” and your mom, did that encourage you to start learning more, even on your own?
JL: Of course, all the different stories of courage and bravery that African American leaders had made me appreciate where I was and rethink my attitude on school. It’s crazy that little things like that, you shouldn’t take advantage of. Most of all, it made me realize that I can’t take my life for granted.
Q: There are so many leaders and examples to choose from, but if you had to, is there one person that stands out that you looked up to?
JL: It’s hard to pinpoint one person to idolize, you know? From Martin Luther King, Jr. to Malcolm X to Rosa Parks, all of these people stood up for something that was bigger than them, that would benefit you and I. That’s crazy to me. They were tremendously strong and brave. It was tough, and in sports? Yea, sometimes I wonder how they could be so strong when people were so cold and cruel to them.
Q: The NBA goes through great lengths to celebrate Black History Month, talk a little about the experience.
JL: Seeing the NBA support and celebrate Black History Month is great. I’m glad to be apart of an organization that recognizes the strength of my people and history. All month long, the NBA supplies us with representation of Black History Month from shoes, socks, t-shirts, the whole get-up, it makes me proud to go out there and wear something that celebrates me. It not only makes it fun for fans and but also a learning experience.
Q: You’re playing for the only black owner in the NBA, what are your thoughts on being a part of that history?
JL: I’m definitely excited to be a part of history especially attached to Michael Jordan’s legacy. He’s a boss. From a great player to now an NBA owner, it speaks volumes of his work ethic and how far he’s come as a representation for not only players, but kids everywhere. He’s shown you can do it all.
Q: To kids like you who didn’t want to learn about history, what would you tell them?
JL: Learn your history. Read all you can about the fascinating people who put their lives on the line to make sure you’re able to have the freedom you have. We are blessed to be where we are, and while its unfortunate we are lucky to have people give their lives for us; future generations. Honor them by just picking up a book and taking the time to learn.
