Proclamation
IN HONOR OF BLACK
HISTORY MONTH
“February 2024”
WHEREAS, Black History Month, also known as African American History Month is celebrated each February in the United States; and
WHEREAS, this began in 1926 and was originally planned for one week, to coincide with the birthdays of two important individuals in the fight to end slavery – Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln; and WHEREAS, in 1976, it was expanded to encompass the entire month of February to recognize the significant contributions made by African Americans to our country’s economy, politics, science, religion and society as a whole; and
WHEREAS, to preserve and protect the legacy of African Americans, a time should be set aside to focus on and reflect on the lifetime triumphs and achievements of great leaders, educators, scholars, inventors, politicians, writers, artists and citizens; and
WHEREAS, the theme for Black History Month 2024 focuses on African Americans and the arts. This year’s theme examines the varied history of life of African American arts and artisans and celebrate African American art which is infused with African, Caribbean, and Black American lived experiences; and WHEREAS, in the fields of visual and performing arts, literature, fashion, folklore, language, film, music, architecture, culinary and other forms of cultural expression, the African American influence has been paramount; and
WHEREAS, as we journey toward a stronger, more united City and Nation, let us use this commemoration of Black History Month to serve as a reminder of the need for meaningful dialogue and shared commitment to collective action that uplifts and empowers, as well as of the strength, ingenuity, and perseverance required of us in the years to come.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that I Michael Clauzel, by virtue of authority vested in me as Mayor of the City of Patterson, California, do hereby officially proclaim “February 2024” as Black History Month. I call upon the larger community of this City to observe this month by expanding their knowledge of the history, culture, legacy, struggles and achievements of African Americans.
IN WITNESS HEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seal of the City of Patterson to be affixed this 20th day of February 2024. __________________________
Michael Clauzel
Mayor