01/23/2024
Department
DATE: January 23, 2024
TO: Members of the City Council
FROM:
Mayor Eduardo Martinez
Subject:
Proclamation recognizing February 2024 as Black History Month in Richmond
FINANCIAL IMPACT: None
PREVIOUS COUNCIL
ACTION:
Tuesday, January 24, 2023
STATEMENT OF THE
ISSUE:
Observing Black History Month celebrates countless
contributions made by African Americans in all aspects of our country’s fabric, including but not limited to business, education, politics, military, science, and the arts.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
PROCLAMATION declaring February 2024 as Black
History Month in the City of Richmond – Mayor’s Office
(Mayor Eduardo Martinez 510- 620-6503).
DISCUSSION:
In 1926, scholar and historian Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of African American Life and History established Black History Week to commemorate the contributions, accomplishments, and participation of African-Americans in the AGENDA
REPORT
01/23/2024
development of the United States. In 1970, black educators and the Black United Students at Kent State University initiated the first Black History Month, six years ahead of its nationwide recognition during the United States Bicentennial in 1976 by President Gerald Ford. During that event, President Ford encouraged Americans to "acknowledge the often-overlooked achievements of Black Americans in all fields throughout our history."
For the year 2024, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History has chosen "African Americans and the Arts" as the theme for Black History Month.
They will host a series of virtual programs and events throughout the month to celebrate this theme. The City of Richmond pays tribute to the significant legacy of African Americans who migrated to the city to work in the shipyards, shaping its cultural, economic, and social foundations. The city also acknowledges and honors the resilience of African Americans who endured generations of racism, discrimination, and unfair working and living conditions. Richmond is committed to addressing racial inequities and institutional racism, aiming to establish a just society for the next generation. The City of Richmond encourages all its residents to join in celebrating the contributions of African Americans in the United States.
DOCUMENTS ATTACHED:
Attachment 1 – Proclamation declaring February 2024 as Black History Month in the City of Richmond