Fiscal Note
No fiscal impact.
Title
Celebrating February 2023 as Black History Month in the City of Madison
Body
WHEREAS, to commemorate and celebrate the contributions to our nation made by people of African descent, American historian Carter G. Woodson established Black History Week nearly a century ago; and,
WHEREAS, the event was first celebrated during the second week of February 1926 and subsequently expanded to a month in 1976 during the nation’s bicentennial; and,
WHEREAS, the theme of Black History Month for 2023 is “Black Resistance”, focused on the myriad ways that Black Americans have worked “to consistently push the United States to live up to its ideals of freedom, liberty, and justice for all”; and,
WHEREAS, this year’s theme of Black Resistance explores how “Black people have sought ways to nurture and protect Black lives, and for autonomy of their physical and intellectual bodies” through formal and informal organizations including community and cultural centers, libraries, faith institutions, media outlets, associations, clubs, education, and health care settings; and,
WHEREAS, the Rebalanced-Life Wellness Association Men's Health & Education Center has a new innovative model for reducing health disparities and improving the social and health condition of Black men in the city and in Dane County in part through providing services within Black barbershops; and,
WHEREAS, we celebrate all of the organizations and individuals in Madison who have contributed to Black Resistance by nurturing and protecting Black lives to help Black communities thrive;
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and Madison Common Council recognize and celebrate February 2023 as Black History Month in the City of Madison and around the United States.
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the City encourages the celebration of this month by inviting all residents in the city to learn more about Black resistance to better understand the varied and rich history and experiences of Black Americans and how they have shaped our nation.
Sources
https://asalh.org/