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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH - 2024
WHEREAS, Black History Month serves as a significant occasion for the residents of Cook County to reflect upon and acknowledge the vibrant culture, storied history, and invaluable contributions of African Americans; and
WHEREAS, in 1926, Carter G. Woodson's establishment of Negro History Week underscored the importance of providing a thematic focus to spotlight crucial developments that highlight the achievements and raise awareness of African Americans; and
WHEREAS, the selected theme for Black History Month 2024 is " Preserving the Past, Shaping the Future: Heritage and Legacy"; and
WHEREAS, This theme reflects on the significance of preserving Black heritage, traditions, and history while looking forward to a future of continued progress and achievement; and
WHEREAS, The choice of this year's theme is particularly relevant given the current politically charged environment surrounding matters of race; and
WHEREAS, as articulated by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, "African Americans have persistently resisted historic and ongoing oppression in all its forms"; and
WHEREAS, These efforts aim to advocate for a dignified, self-determined life within a just democratic society in the United States and beyond its political jurisdiction; and
WHEREAS, As noted by LaGarrett King, an associate professor of social studies education at the University at Buffalo, it represents a concerted effort to reframe the conversation about Black history around a theme of empowerment; and
WHEREAS, Sara Clarke Kaplan, executive director of the Antiracist Research & Policy Center, aptly states, "There is no American history without African American history, as it is embedded in everything we consider as American history"; and
WHEREAS, it is incumbent upon us to consistently reflect upon the myriad contributions and accomplishments made by African Americans in the developm...
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