Morgan Freeman has once again voiced his disapproval of Black History Month, expressing his dissatisfaction with the concept.
“I detest it,” the 87-year-old actor expressed in a recent interview with Variety. “The mere idea of it. You are going to give me the shortest month in a year? And you are going to celebrate ‘my’ history?! This whole idea makes my teeth itch. It’s not right.”
Freeman emphasized that his history is intertwined with American history, which he holds in high regard. “My history is American history. It’s the one thing in this world I am interested in, beyond making money, having a good time and getting enough sleep,” he stated.
Highlighting the importance of historical awareness, Freeman discussed his role as executive producer for the upcoming film “The Gray House,” based on the true story of three women who served as Union spies during the Civil War. He believes that understanding history is crucial to avoid repeating past mistakes. “If you don’t know your past, if you don’t remember it, you are bound to repeat it,” he remarked.
Freeman has consistently criticized the designation of Black History Month, labeling it an “insult” and expressing similar sentiments about the term “African-American.” “I don’t subscribe to that title,” he declared, questioning the significance and origin of such labels.
The actor famously made headlines in 2005 when he denounced the concept of dedicating a month to Black history as “ridiculous,” asserting, “I don’t want a Black History Month. Black history is American history.”
Freeman also suggested that ceasing to focus on racial distinctions could help combat racism. “The best way to get rid of racism is to stop talking about it,” he advised. “I am going to stop calling you a White man, and I’m going to ask you to stop calling me a Black man,” he told an interviewer.
