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A RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING FEBRUARY 2024 AS BLACK HISTORY MONTH AND HONORING THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF AFRICAN AMERICANS IN THE CITY OF GAHANNA
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WHEREAS, Dr. Carter G. Woodson promoted Negro History Week in 1926, which has since evolved into a month-long celebration; and
WHEREAS, President Gerald Ford made Black History Month a national holiday after recognizing “the too often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history,” in his 1976 speech to mark the United States Bicentennial; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Donja Thomas, educator, activist, Black Studies curriculum developer, and the first Black English teacher at Gahanna Lincoln High School, honors Black History and the impact of Black literature and cultural perspectives throughout America and beyond through African American Voice, a core credit English class offered at Gahanna Lincoln High School and one of the only Black literature courses offered for such credit in the state of Ohio; and
WHEREAS, the theme, as established by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, for Black History Month 2024 is African Americans and the Arts; acknowledging that in the fields of visual and performing arts, literature, fashion, folklore, language, film, music, architecture, culinary and other forms of cultural expression, the African American influence has been paramount; and
WHEREAS, for 10 years, Gahanna Lincoln students under the leadership of Dr. Thomas and Johnel Amerson with support from Tia Holliman, Keah Germany, Rachel Manley and Keisha Whitfield, create, produce, and perform in Diaspora: Voices of an Ever-Changing America, an annual Black cultural program that debunks myths and challenging thinking; and
WHEREAS, during Black History Month we celebrate the many achievements and contributions made by Black and African American thinkers, scientists, educators, faith leaders, artists, business, and political leaders, etc.; and
WHEREAS, the Gahanna City Council is proud to honor the Black and African American community, its rich history, and its significant contributions in Gahanna, throughout our state, and across this nation.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GAHANNA, COUNTY OF FRANKLIN, STATE OF OHIO:
Section 1. That this Council does hereby recognize February 2024 as Black History Month for the City of Gahanna.
Section 2. That this resolution shall be in full force and effect at the earliest period allowed by law.