Most of the school curriculum books before the 1960s had no black role models or anything about the black cultural heritage. America did not highlight positive black role models. Unfortunately, Newspapers highlighted black criminals on the front page. There were very few black media writers to give commentary from a black perspective. There were no news programs like ESPN where there was a balanced approach between black and white analysts. There was no Steven A. Smith who was allowed to speak their minds without fear of being fired. Yet, thanks to sporting programs like ESPN, young black youth are exposed to intelligent, articulate, and capable black role models who can think on their feet when articulating their ideas. If mainstream network news programs were as diversified as most sports networks, human relations and race relations would be further advanced than it is now. Blacks, Whites, and Hispanics have different perspectives in various areas. Therefore President Obama received over 90% of the black vote. It is not because every black person agreed with all of Obama’s policies; his policy reflected more of their views than Romney’s. Having a seat at the table makes a difference. There is enough room for a host of views. ESPN is a sparkling example of how successful a program can be when various perspectives and ideas are allowed to flourish. Taxpayers want their opinions heard and articulated. Failure to address the questions and the problems of a significant racial or cultural group can lead to distrust and confusion. Ideally, influential racial and cultural groups should influence policy-making decisions. Black History Month is a significant factor in highlighting the achievements and accomplishments of Black Americans. Black History helps enhance the self-esteem of young black men and women, and it informs the public of significant minority achievements. Before integration, public schools and historically black colleges were institutions that developed leadership within the black community. Seeing black men and women in leadership positions had a profound effect on the self-esteem of black students. In addition, exposure to strong black role models inspired black students to take pride in their cultural heritage and have a respect for law and order. During the days of segregation, black teachers sponsored numerous service clubs, which helped develop leadership skills. Most of the professors, principals, teachers and coaches who worked in the system had respect for black and white communities during my childhood. Several officials became long-term city mayors and councilmen upon retirement from the system. However, the number of black leaders working in the school system has dramatically decreased. A lack of black leadership in responsible positions has significantly affected the black community.