Title
Special Recognition - Proclamation Recognizing Black History Month
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Proclaim February as Black History Month in the City of Olympia.
Report
Issue:
Whether to proclaim February as Black History Month in the City of Olympia.
Staff Contact:
Olivia Salazar de Breaux, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Specialist, Parks, Arts and Recreation, 360.753.8343
Presenter(s):
Javoen Byrd, Founder, Hawk Foundation for Research and Education in African Culture
Background and Analysis:
Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing the central role of Black individuals in U.S. history.
The creation of noted historian Carter G. Woodson and other prominent African Americans in 1926, every U.S. president since 1976 has officially designated the month of February as Black History Month. Other countries around the world, including Canada and the United Kingdom, also devote a month to celebrating black history.
In February 2022, the City of Olympia partnered with the Hawk Foundation for Research and Education in African Culture to host the first annual Black History Month Celebration. The City, its employees, elected officials, community members, and visitors enthusiastically participated. This year the City is pleased to partner again with the Hawk Foundation to host a Black History Month Celebration that is open to the public and will feature presenters, music and food. The event will commence on February 15, 2024 from 5:30 to 8:30 pm at the Kenneth J. Minnaert Center for the Arts, South Puget Sound Community College.
Climate Analysis:
No impacts to any of the climate mitigation sectors.
Equity Analysis:
This recognition raises awareness about the sacrifices, contributions, and achievements made by generations of African Americans here in the Pacific Northwest and across the nation. This recognition bene...
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