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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
COOK COUNTY BOARD RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING FEBRUARY AS BLACK HISTORY MONTH
WHEREAS, Black History Month, a national observance that takes place annually in February, provides an opportunity for the residents of Cook County to recognize the culture, history and talents of African Americans; and
WHEREAS, Black History Month began as "Negro History Week," which was created in 1926 by Carter G. Woodson, a noted African American historian, scholar, educator, and publisher. It became a month-long celebration in 1976. The month of February was chosen to coincide with the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln; and
WHEREAS, in 1976, President Gerald R. Ford officially recognized Black History Month, calling it a moment for the public to "seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history." Since then, the month of February has been recognized by every president of the United States as Black History Month; and
WHEREAS, this year's theme for Black History Month is "A Century of Black Life, History and Culture"; and
WHEREAS, Cook County's African American population is approximately 1.3 million, making it the county with the largest black population in the nation; and
WHEREAS, all residents of Cook County can draw strength and inspiration from the unwavering and steadfast spirit displayed by African Americans in their fight against slavery, segregation, economic oppression and injustice; and
WHEREAS, African Americans have made countless economic, social, cultural and political contributions throughout Cook County, the Land of Lincoln, and the United States of America; and
WHEREAS, we must always pay tribute to the heroes of African American history, and it is important that the people of Cook County observe Black History Month with the highest level of programming, as well as the most enriching ceremonial and educational activities; and
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Cook County President and the Board of Commissioners honor the numerous trailblazers of Black History, and recognize the many extraordinary accomplishments African Americans have made to the United States of America, the State of Illinois, and to Cook County.
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