HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-04-2020 Proclamation - Proclamation for Black History Month ~ February 2020 florida
Proclamation
WHEREAS, Black History Month is celebrated annually in February across the United States;it serves
as a celebration of African American achievements and the crucial role they had in U.S
History as well as time to recognize the severe adversity generations of black Americans
had to overcome to achieve legitimate citizenship in our society; and
WHEREAS, in 1926, Dr. Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of African American
Life and History(ASALH)sponsored a national Negro History Week, choosing the second
week of February to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick
Douglass;by the late 1960s, the weeklong celebration evolved into Black History Month
calling our attention to the continued need to battle racism and build a society that lives
up to its democratic ideals;
WHEREAS, the City of Ocoee continues to work toward becoming an inclusive community in which
all citizens are respected and recognized for their contributions and potential
contributions to our community; and
WHEREAS, the City of Ocoee established the Human Relations Diversity Board to promote
understanding, respect, goodwill, and equality among all citizens and businesses of the
City of Ocoee.Since its inception 15 years ago, the HRDB has worked with the city hosting
annual events promoting Black History Month; and
WHEREAS, the City of Ocoee recently celebrated the 14th Annual MLK Day Parade and Celebration
honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.; and
WHEREAS, the City's 16th Annual Black History Month Essay Contest encourages our local 5th
graders to write their perspective on what "A Vision of Hope"means to them; and
WHEREAS, residents can tune in to Historical Civil Right Segments on Ocoee TV Channel 493 to
watch programs that highlight significant people and events from African-American
history. Citizens may also visit the Black History Month Wall of fame in City Hall to view
biographical portraits of notable African-Americans.
NOW,THEREFORE,BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COMIIIISSION OF THE CITY OF OCOEE,
does hereby declare the month of February 2020 as
Black History Month
The city shall celebrate the vibrant culture and achievements African Americans have contributed to our
country;this month, and throughout the year, we urge our residents to celebrate that heritage and continue
to fight for equality and opportunity for all.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand
and caused the Seal of the City of Ocoee, Florida to be
affixed this 4th day of February, 2020.
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