Mayor Eduardo Martinez
City of Richmond
January 27, 2026
Doria Robinson
Vice Mayor
City of Richmond
Proclamation Recognizing Black History Month in the City of Richmond
WHEREAS, in 1926, Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of African American Life and History recognized Black History Week to honor the contributions, achievements, and involvement of African Americans in the development of the United States; and
WHEREAS, in 1970, black educators and the Black United Students at Kent State University celebrated the first Black History Month, six years before it was celebrated across the country when President Gerald Ford recognized Black History Month during the United States Bicentennial in 1976 where he urged Americans to “honor the too- often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history;” and
WHEREAS, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History has highlighted “A Century of Black History Commemorations” as the 2026 Black History Month theme and will host a series of virtual programs and events throughout the month; and
WHEREAS, 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; and
WHEREAS, the City of Richmond honors the rich legacy of African Americans who migrated here to work in the shipyards and molded our cultural, economic, and social foundations; and
WHEREAS, the City of Richmond recognizes and honors the resiliency of African Americans who faced generations of racism, discrimination, and unjust working and living conditions and is dedicated to combating racial inequities and institutional racism in order to ensure a just society on the home front of the next greatest generation.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Richmond City Council does
hereby declare February 2026 as Black History Month in the City of Richmond and encourages all residents to celebrate the contributions of African Americans in the United States.