PROCLAMATION

Solano County Democratic Central Committee

 Black History Month, 2022

WHEREAS, the origin of Black History Month began in 1915, half a century after the Thirteenth Amendment abolished slavery in the United States, and emerged out  of “Negro History Week,” the creation of noted Black American historian Carter G. Woodson; and

WHEREAS, with the Civil Rights Movement and a growing awareness of Black Identity, Black History Month or National African American History Month evolved to an annual celebration of achievements by Black Americans of African descent recognizing the central role of Black Americans in U.S. history; and

WHEREAS, many Black Americans lived, toiled, and died in obscurity, never achieving the recognition those individuals deserved, and yet paved the way for future generations to succeed; and

WHEREAS, here in Solano County we honor the memory and legacies of Adam Willis, a enslaved person who lived in Benicia, John Grider who lived in Solano County from 1850 to 1924 and was one of eight Black Americans who participated in the Bear Flag Revolt at Sonoma in 1846. We acknowledge John R. Landaway, Wilson Dixon of Vallejo and Charles Gibson of Suisun City who were members of a state-wide education committee in the 1860’s that raised money to fight for educational opportunities for Black children; and

WHEREAS, the Solano County Democratic Central Committee celebrates the contributions of all people who thrived throughout history making unforgettable positive changes in Solano County as artists, scientists, educators, business people, influential thinkers, members of the faith community, athletes, and political and governmental leaders.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that, the Solano County Democratic Central Committee recognizes February 2022 as Black History Month.

DONE AND PROCLAIMED this 26th day of January 2022 in Solano County California.