House Resolution No. 75 (AR75), introduced by Assembly Member Holden, recognizes February 2018 as Black History Month in the state of California. The resolution honors the significant contributions of African Americans throughout U.S. history, celebrating figures such as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Frederick Madison Roberts, the first African American elected to the California State Legislature. The bill highlights the importance of Black history and encourages citizens to engage with and celebrate the achievements of African Americans during the month dedicated to their history and contributions.
The resolution underscores the origins of Black History Month, tracing back to Dr. Carter Godwin Woodson's establishment of Negro History Week in 1926, which was later adopted as Black History Month in 1976. This foundational aspect of the resolution serves to remind Californians of the importance of recognizing and preserving African American history amidst the ongoing struggles against racism and discrimination in the United States.
Notably, the bill discusses the multitude of challenges faced by African Americans, including the injustices of slavery, segregation, and lynchings. The resolution reflects on their resilience and contributions to various fields, from science to civil rights, asserting the necessity of celebrating and acknowledging these historical narratives. By promoting awareness and education about African American history, this resolution aims to foster dialogue and understanding among all Californians.
While the resolution is largely celebratory, it is rooted in a historical context that acknowledges the longstanding racial issues and inequities. As such, AR75 serves not only as a recognition of past achievements but also as a call to action for continuing the pursuit of equality. It encourages individuals and communities to reflect on their own roles in recognizing and addressing ongoing challenges related to race and equity in society.