City of SantaClara
WHEREAS, historian Carter G. Woodson first proposed Black History Month in 1926 to highlight the central role of Black Americans in the history of the United States; and in 1976, February was officially recognized by the U.S. government as Black History Month, a designation that has continued each year since; and
WHEREAS, Black History Month raises awareness of Black culture and honors Black leaders who have changed the course of American history; and the 2026 theme, “A Century of Black History Commemorations,” emphasizes the significant achievement represented by a century of dedicated Black history commemorations. The theme honors how Carter G. Woodson’s concept of “Negro History Week” has evolved to become an annual, month-long, scholarly and sustained movement to study, teach, and disseminate Black history; and WHEREAS, the City of Santa Clara recognizes groups including the African American Community Service Agency (AACSA), founded in 1978 which provides educational and cultural programs that strengthen African American and Black culture in Santa Clara County; and WHEREAS, the City of Santa Clara is proud to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Black History Month and to honor the rich history and lasting contributions of Black Americans in our city, our state, and across the nation.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, LISA M. GILLMOR, by virtue of the authority vested in me as Mayor, and on behalf of the entire City Council, do hereby proclaim the month of February 2026 as
BLACK HISTORY MONTH
in the City of Santa Clara and encourage all residents to honor and recognize the important contributions made by Black Americans throughout the United States’ history.
Given under my hand and the Seal of the City of Santa Clara, California, this 10th day of February 2026.
LISA M. GILLMOR
MAYOR, CITY OF SANTA CLARA
ALBERT GONZALEZ
VICE MAYOR, DISTRICT 1
RAJ CHAHAL
COUNCILMEMBER, DISTRICT 2
KAREN HARDY
COUNCILMEMBER, DISTRICT 3
KEVIN PARK
COUNCILMEMBER, DISTRICT 4
SUDS JAIN
COUNCILMEMBER, DISTRICT 5
KELLY G. COX
COUNCILMEMBER, DISTRICT 6
Proclamation