Couple Relieved They Don't Have To Whisper The Word ‘Black’ For Entire Month Of February

LONG ISLAND, NY—Every year, Russell and Emily Johnson have a calendar counting down the days till February 1st.

For Johnson and their friends, Black History Month marks the brief time during the year when they no longer have to whisper “Black” while criticizing their neighbors, co-workers, or on extremely rare occasions, friends. 

“It’s corny but honestly, I cherish every single hour, minute, and second of February. It’s the only time I am not struggling with whether I should say Black or Afro-American,” said the 45-year-old Johnson before pointing at a stranger and shouting: “Black! Yes, you are!”

“Everything is so simple in February,” said Johnson as he wrote detailed complaints about his neighbors on the Next Door App. “When I talk to my friends, family, or the cops I can just say, ‘I think this Black guy is a thief”, instead of being the ignorant asshole who struggles with what description to use and ends up saying something dumb like, 'I think that tall guy, you know with the hair, stole my stuff.'"

“Before February 1st, I have to describe my Black coworkers as soulful, articulate, or from a good family, when talking to friends or complaining to HR,” said Emily. “But now, I can just say ‘that Black’ and not feel agony over whether I said the right thing.” 

Although the couple is relishing every second of February, they’re already dreading March’s arrival. 

“I don’t want to be that guy, but honestly, I do wish every month was Black history month. It would make my life so much easier,” said Johnson while putting up extra fencing between him and his Black neighbors.

“If I may, this month really makes us feel, ‘free at last’” said Emily while wiping away tears from her eyes.