The legendary actor Morgan Freeman, known for his deep, distinctive voice and powerful on-screen presence, recently shared his thoughts on Black History Month. In an interview with Variety, Freeman, at the age of 87, expressed his strong opposition to the concept, emphasizing that American history as a whole is more important than spotlighting one group’s contributions for just one month.
Freeman isn’t just an acclaimed actor; he’s also a producer. His latest project, “The Gray House,” co-produced with Lori McCreary, explores the United States Civil War. The show focuses on the three women credited by General Ulysses S. Grant with helping the North to victory. This historical context underlines Freeman’s broader view on the matter.
When asked about Black History Month, Freeman didn’t hold back. “I detest it,” he stated. He elaborated, “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.” His frustration is clear as he questions why black history should be isolated from the larger American historical narrative.
Freeman stressed that his history is a part of 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 remarked. This aligns with a viewpoint that values a unified national identity over separating histories, which can sometimes create division.
Freeman highlighted the significance of understanding history in its entirety 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 warned. This sentiment is often echoed by those who believe in learning from history as a whole, rather than focusing on fragmented parts.
Shifting the conversation towards the entertainment industry, Freeman shared insights about the ebb and flow of success in Hollywood. “Do you know this song? ‘To everything, there is a season.’ It really, really works in showbusiness. You are trying to sell something 15 years ago and nobody even looks at you. Then they go: ‘Didn’t you have a project, some time ago? Do you still have it?’ Life is like that, in this industry,” he reflected, showing the cyclical nature of fame and opportunity.
Discussing his latest project, “The Gray House,” Freeman noted its inclusive approach. “It’s so wide-ranging. There are so many people in the series, because we are acknowledging they were there. If you can do that, if you are given space to do that, bravo. It didn’t just happen to one group of people,” he said. This reinforces his belief in recognizing the full spectrum of historical contributions.
Co-producer Lori McCreary provided additional context regarding the show’s portrayal of slavery, an essential element given its Civil War backdrop. “We are not white-washing, we are not sugar-coating the fact that African Americans were enslaved. They weren’t treated as a full person. When you come out of watching these eight hours, maybe you will look at someone who looks like Morgan or me differently. You will understand their experience, their ancestors’ experience and you will be able to relate,” she explained.
Freeman’s stance on Black History Month and his views on American history reflect a call for unity and an all-encompassing understanding of our past. His comments serve as a reminder that American history, with all its complexities, should be seen as a collective journey that includes all its people.
