A PROCLAMATION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF POMONA, COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, PROCLAIMING FEBRUARY 2022 AS “BLACK HISTORY MONTH” IN THE CITY OF POMONA Whereas, during Black History Month, we celebrate the many achievements and contributions made by African Americans to our economic, cultural, spiritual, educational, and political development; and Whereas, in 1926, Dr. Carter Godwin Woodson – noted Harvard University Black historian and founder of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History – initiated Black History Week; and Whereas, for many years, the second week of February was celebrated by African Americans in the United States and was chosen so as to coincide with the birthdays of escaped slave and abolitionist movement leader, Frederick Douglas and that of President Abraham Lincoln; and Whereas, in 1976, as part of the nation’s bicentennial, Black History Week was expanded and became established as Black History Month, and is now celebrated all over North America; and Whereas, the theme for Black History Month 2022 is “African Americans and the Vote" highlighting the struggle of Black men and women for voting rights that continues to this day. This year is a landmark year for voting rights, marking the 150th anniversary of the Fifteenth Amendment (in 1870) which gave the right to vote to Black men, following the Civil War. It also marks the centennial of the Nineteenth Amendment and the culmination of the women’s suffrage movement; and Whereas, the City of Pomona continues to work toward becoming an inclusive community in which all citizens—past, present, and future—are respected and recognized for their contributions to our City and extended community; and Whereas, the City of Pomona is proud to honor the history and contributions of African Americans in our community, throughout our state, and nation.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF POMONA does hereby proclaim the February 2022 as “BLACK HISTORY MONTH”.