WHEREAS, Black History Month started in 1926 when distinguished Black author and founder of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, Dr. Carter G. Woodson, launched Negro History Week to celebrate and showcase the historical contributions of Black Americans; and WHEREAS, Dr. Carter G. Woodson selected the second week of February because it included the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln, which had been notable dates for the Black community since the start of the twentieth century; and WHEREAS, in 1976, it evolved into a month-long celebration, when President Gerald Ford officially recognized the month of February as Black History Month to highlight the contributions that Black Americans have made in every field, from science, the arts to politics, and religion; and WHEREAS, the Black History Month theme for 2024, African Americans and the Arts, explores the key influence African Americans have had in the fields of visual and performing arts, literature, fashion, folklore, language, film, music, architecture, culinary and other forms of cultural expression; and WHEREAS, Black History Month is a time for all Americans to reflect on both the history and teachings of Black Americans and to focus on the progress, richness, and diversity of Black American achievements; and WHEREAS, Black History is not just about the struggles Black families have been through, but rather it is a time of rejoicing, celebrating accomplishments, integrity, leadership, and determination, and showing true character; and WHEREAS, the City of Costa Mesa continues to work toward becoming a more inclusive community in which all citizens are respected and recognized for their contributions and potential contributions to our community; and WHEREAS, the City of Costa Mesa is proud to honor the history and contributions of Black Americans in our community, throughout our state and nation.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, John B. Stephens, Mayor of the City of Costa Mesa, do hereby proclaim the month of February 2024 as Black History Month in the City of Costa Mesa and encourage all residents to join me in celebrating the diversity and character of our community and to continue to work towards the ideals of equality, freedom, and justice.
Dated this 6th day of February 2024.
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John B. Stephens, Mayor of the City of Costa Mesa