By Marie Brown
The disappearance of history is an occurrence that has happened down through the years. Maintaining and preserving records has been intentionally or unintentionally forgotten. There are countless examples of black inventions and their inventors. Garrett Morgan invented the first three-light traffic signal and the gas mask. George Washington Carver developed numerous uses for peanuts, including oil, paper, and rubber. Elijah McCoy had numerous inventions related to steam engine lubrication. This is where we get the slogan, “The Real McCoy.” These inventions are just a few of many.
The inventions have been archived and will be forever noted. Unfortunately, there are hundreds and thousands of inventions by Black people that have been attributed to others. We have seen the same happen with the federal, state, and local levels, not inventions, but dealing with government projects. Monroe, LA. did not come into existence in the past 5 years. There are past and present mayors and city council members who have made a tremendous impact on our community; however, their names have been omitted. There are local projects including a fire station, upgrades to the water treatment plant, parks, infrastructure projects, a One-stop Shop, and many projects that have been planned and implemented by the past administration and city council, have been taken credit for by the current administration. It is important that, as a community, we preserve the success of all who accomplish milestones that contribute to the quality of life of our residents. That history should be appropriately documented and preserved. That way, we can continue to Love where we Live and Live where we Love.
