Black history is as “necessary” as any other history. It’s part of American history. As far as “enlightening” someone on history, what I learned from the first person mentioned is it simply wasn’t worth it. I’d rather interact with people who are already interested and willing to acknowledge their racial background. If they’re still denying it, I don’t want to engage. I put too much energy into trying to explain why it makes sense to acknowledge both groups. From that point on, I realized as long as someone is in deep denial about it and trying to “pass,” I’ll pass too — on befriending them. There was just way too much brainwashing (and FOX News watching) involved to stomach.