Black History is American History

Black history is an important part of everyone’s history in this episode of The Children's Hour. We explore the stories of Black inventors, heroes, and pioneers who helped shape America. Plus, we dive into the human heart to learn about congenital heart defects and how people born with them can live strong, happy lives. Find the full episode page at https://childrenshour.org/black-history American history is full of stories of influential, resilient, powerful black people doing amazing things. With some of the most common inventions we use every day coming from black Americans, we have a lot to learn! Dr. Marsha Hardeman from the University of New Mexico shares stories about Black Americans who were trailblazers and pioneers in the American Southwest and beyond. Did you know that Black inventors gave us things like the traffic signal, folding chairs, and even part of the light bulb? We’ll also talk about the first Juneteenth and the Buffalo Soldiers, who created new paths and opportunities for generations to come. Black history is filled with stories of courage, creativity, and resilience! February 7 to 14 is Congenital Heart Disease Awareness week. We learn about the amazing human heart with Dubra Karnes-Padilla, a lecturer in the fitness and wellness education center at the University of New Mexico Valencia campus. Did you know your heart pumps oxygen to almost every part of your body? Congenital heart defects (CHD) are the most common birth defect in America, but many kids born with CHD grow up strong and healthy. We’ll talk about what makes the heart special and how to care for it. You can learn more about Congenital Heart Defects at https://www.achaheart.org/ This episode of The Children's Hour was written and produced by Katie Stone, with production help from Sarah Gabrielli and Thaniel Lentz. Special thanks to Dr. Marsha Hardeman from the University of New Mexico Department of Africana Studies, and to Dubra Karnes-Padilla from the Adult Congenital Heart Association, for sharing their expertise with us. The Children’s Hour is distributed by Native Voice One: The Native American Radio Network. © 2025 The Children’s Hour Inc. All Rights Reserved.