February is not just another month of the year, it is Black History Month — a time for Americans of all ethnic backgrounds to reflect on the contributions of African-Americans to the mosaic that is the United States and the ISU community.Black History Month has been seen in different lights at different times. It started as a nod to African Americans for their often overlooked part in American history. It was a way for them to celebrate their heritage. It became a way to educate all of us on the shortcomings of our educational system.Today, we encourage all ISU students, staff and faculty to give proper attention to those African-Americans who have contributed to life right here in Ames.Many people add to Iowa State’s diversity and enrich our lives with their activism, artistry and wisdom in and out of the classroom. Let us not overlook them.Black History Month is not just some PC handout — a token month with a label to be ignored. We can all look to this month as a way of seeing a part of ourselves that is greater than just our own Jungian self. We expand our horizons by seeing our American faces in many colors. Unlike many countries that pull themselves apart over what seem like minute differences of religion or ethnicity, the truth about America is that our diversity is our strength. It may not seem like it sometimes, but it is.We could have torn ourselves asunder hundreds of times, but just as we peered into the abyss, we pulled back and came to our senses. Every day and in every way we should all appreciate the contributions of people of many different races, ethnicities, religions, genders, abilities, persuasions and special interests and thank whoever we do or do not call God for living in a country where we can often find our strength in our differences.editorialboard: Carrie Tett, Greg Jerrett, Katie Goldsmith, Andrea Hauser and Jocelyn Marcus