The Giant Problem With Mike Pence's Black History Month Tweet

Vice President Mike Pence posted an offensive tweet that was supposedly meant to honor black Americans on the first day of Black History Month. "As Black History Month begins," the tweet reads, "we remember when Pres. Lincoln submitted the 13th Amendment, ending slavery to the states."

Let's break down what's wrong with this statement. Instead of honoring a black icon, Pence not only chose to highlight a white president, but he also invoked America's horrific past of enslaving black people. The statement essentially reminds readers that black people were once slaves, and it reinforces the notion of a white savior.

During a time in our history when white nationalism has surged, Pence's statement is particularly troubling. Black History Month is intended to commemorate how diversity edified America and the contributions black people have made to American society — not a reminder that they were once in chains.