_______________________________________ _________________________________________ NELSON ESPARZA, COUNCILMEMBER DISTRICT 7 JERRY P. DYER, HONORABLE MAYOR
________________________________________ ___________________________________ ______ ANNALISA PEREA, COUNCIL PRESIDENT DISTRICT 1 MIKE KARBASSI, COUNCIL VICE PRESIDENT DISTRICT 2
________________________________________ ___________________________________ ______ MIGUEL ARIAS, COUNCILMEMBER DISTRICT 3 TYLER MAXWELL, COUNCILMEMBER DISTRICT 4
________________________________________ ___________________________________ _____ LUIS CHAVEZ, COUNCILMEMBER DISTRICT 5 GARRY BREDEFELD, COUNCILMEMBER DISTRICT 6
CITY OF FRESNO
The Fresno City Council
African Americans and the Arts
WHEREAS: February is nationally proclaimed “Black History Month” to honor African Americans and express our gratitude towards their countless contributions to the City of Fresno. From the very beginning of our city, African Americans were essential to the development and success of our community. Shining a light on Black history today is as important to understanding ourselves and growing stronger as a community. Today, we honor those who broke barriers and helped shaped our world and those who continue to confront injustices that are still present today; and
WHEREAS: We thank these individuals for bringing our country to a better and more socially just time. And although the fight for equity is long from over, we remember how far the African American community has brought us and thank them for continuing to illuminate the path to social equity; and
WHEREAS: The 2024 national theme of Black History Month, “African Americans and the Arts,” explores the influence that African Americans have had across the fields of visual and performing arts, literature, film, music, and other forms of cultural expression; and
WHEREAS: Today our City of Fresno honors community leaders like Henry Ellard Jr., a Fresno native who has a long history in the arts. He began his 12-year career in fashion and arts when he moved to New York City, working for luxury fashion brands like Gucci, Dior, and Cartier. After working in fashion, Ellard decided to come back to his hometown Fresno; and
WHEREAS: Upon his return, he created the “Better Living Art Club .” A non -profit focused on social and emotional development of youth through the arts. In addition, to supporting Fresno’s youth, Henry is on the board for Downtown Fresno Foundation and the advisory board for Fresno State College of Arts and Humanities, which focuses on building a bridge between Fresno State and local minority artists. We honor Mr. Ellard’s dedication towards sharing his love of art with our city; and
WHEREAS: The City of Fresno is proud to celebrate black history today, and every day, in support of black led organizations and leaders whom we thank for their countless contributions to our neighborhoods, cities and nation.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED: that Councilmember Nelson Esparza, Council President Annalisa Perea, the Fresno City Council, and Mayor Jerry P. Dyer do hereby proclaim, the 1st of February 2024, as:
“Black History Month”
in the City of Fresno.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, we have hereunto set our hands
and affixed the Seal of The City of Fresno, California, on this 1st day of February 2024.