HomeMy WebLinkAboutPRO-2026-002-Black History Month ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
BLACK HISTORY MONTH
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS , it is essential to sustain a harmonious and inclusive society ; Orange County
discourages practices and actions deemed detrimental to the peace , welfare , and progress of
our community ; and
WHEREAS , Black Americans , descendants of people forcibly taken from Africa and subjected
to the brutalities of slavery , White supremacy , and family separation , have survived and
overcome over 400 years of systemic oppression , creating a vibrant and dynamic legacy that is
central to the cultural , economic , and political fabric of this nation ; and
WHEREAS , the resilience , innovation , and indomitable spirit of Black Americans have pushed
this nation closer to the ideals of freedom , equality , and democracy that the Founders expressed
but did not fully pursue , even as they have fought tirelessly against the enduring specter of racial
injustice , oppression , violence , and discrimination ; and
WHEREAS , Black history is not only a celebration of winners and victories won , but also a
testament to the years and lives lost in the pursuit of equity , inclusion , social justice , and
liberation ; and
WHEREAS , we honor the legacy of leaders , martyrs , visionaries , and revolutionaries who
sacrificed safety to defy both legal and illegal acts of oppression , from the children who led in
the Children ' s Crusade of 1963 , to the students who formed the decentralized organization of
the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee ( SNCC ) , to the Freedom Riders who spent 1961
traveling cross country on buses ; and
WHEREAS , this year' s theme of "A Century of Black History Commemorations " highlights the
100t" annual celebration of Black History in the USA , highlighting the longevity and impact of Dr .
Carter G . Woodson ' s efforts to implement the original , week- long recognition of Black History ;
NOW, THEREFORE , we , the Board of County Commissioners of Orange County , do proclaim
February 2026 as " BLACK HISTORY MONTH " and encourage residents to honor this
distinctive month by becoming more enlightened as to the true history of Black Americans in
this Country and in our community .
THIS THE 3rd DAY OF FEBRUARY. 2026.
an Hamilton , Chair
Orange County Board of Commissioners
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