Agenda 02-20-24; 4-a - Black History Month Proclamation

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1 ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT Meeting Date: February 20, 2024 Action Agenda Item No. 4-a SUBJECT: Black History Month Proclamation DEPARTMENT: Office of Equity and Inclusion ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT: Proclamation Shameka Y. Fairbanks, (919) 245-2317 List of Activities PURPOSE: To approve a proclamation declaring February 2024 as Black History Month. BACKGROUND: Carter G. Woodson and three others started Black History Month, proclaimed by every president since 1976. These Black Americans formed the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLF), which started the idea of Black History Month in 1915, at the celebration of the fiftieth anniversary of emancipation in Washington, DC. The ASNLF, an organization whose mission was to research and promote the achievements of Black Americans and other people of African descent. The first celebration was during the week in February that encompassed Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglas's birthdays. In 1976, President Gerald Ford expanded the celebration to the month of February. President Ford urged Americans to "seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history." The month of February was selected to commemorate the birthdays of Lincoln and Douglas and to recognize the history of Black Americans and the historical significance they represent in the history of the United States. This year's Black History Month theme is "African Americans and the Arts", which explores the key influence African Americans have had in the fields of "visual and performing arts, literature, fashion, folklore, language, film, music, architecture, culinary and other forms of cultural expression." County activities commemorating Black History Month are detailed on the attached list. FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no financial impact associated with this item. SOCIAL JUSTICE IMPACT: The following Orange County Social Justice Goals are applicable to this item: • GOAL: FOSTER A COMMUNITY CULTURE THAT REJECTS OPPRESSION AND INEQUITY The fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race or color; religious or philosophical beliefs; sex, gender or sexual orientation; national origin or ethnic background; age; military service; disability; and familial, residential, or economic status.