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, Culture and Belonging Manager, Parks, Arts and Recreation, 360.753.8343
Presenter(s):
Local youth representatives
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. This celebration was initiated by Dr. Carter Godwin Woodson in February 1926 - as Black History Week - which was expanded and established as Black History Month in 1976. The 2025 Black History Month theme is African Americans and Labor.
Olympia has a long history of celebrating and supporting the diversity of all its community members and visitors. In February 2022, the City of Olympia partnered with the Hawk Foundation for Research and Education in African Culture to host the first annual Olympia Black History Month Celebration. This year the City is pleased to sponsor Black History Month Events hosted by the Hawk Foundation, Women of Color in Leadership, and Olympia Film Society throughout the month of February culminating in a documentary screening and community lecture on February 23, 2025 at the Capitol Theater.
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 benefits Olympia residents as well as those in neighboring communities by increasing a sense of belonging and inclusion.
Attachments:
Proclamation