HomeMy WebLinkAbout2/1/2012 - STAFF REPORTS - 00 (2) WHEREAS, in 1921, Carter G. Woodson, the "Father of Black History,"
established the Association for the Study of African-American Life History in
Washington D.C., which began the practice of observing the history of African
Americans in the month of February; and
WHEREAS, the month of February was selected in honor of the birthdays of
our great Presidents George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, as well as the
renowned Frederick Douglass, a great abolitionist and most impressive orator; and
WHEREAS, Black History Month helps to increase awareness of the history
and culture of African Americans, as well as the substantial contributions they have
made to society, such as the ability to store blood for transfusions which saves
millions of lives, made possible by Dr. Charles Drew's research in blood plasma and
the invention of the traffic signal by Garrett A. Morgan, and many others; and
WHEREAS, Black History is also rich with the legendary athletic performances
and artistic contributions of many African American men and women; and
WHEREAS, this year's Black History Month theme, "Celebrating Our Past and
Embracing Our Future" reflects the 25th Anniversary of Black History Month; and
WHEREAS, the significant history and enriching culture of African Americans
will be recounted and celebrated throughout Palm Springs, the great State of
California, and a proud and appreciative nation. Our citizens are encouraged to
celebrate Black History Month and recognize the significant contributions that
African Americans have made to our great American society.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, STEPHEN P. POUGNET, Mayor of the City of Palm
Spring, California, by the power vested in me, do hereby proclaim February 2012 to
be:
BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Presented this 1st day of February 2012