SNOHOMISH COUNTY, Wash., February 1, 2022 – Yesterday at its REGULAR ADMNISTRATIVE SESSION, the Snohomish County Council unanimously passed a resolution recognizing February as Black History Month in Snohomish County.
The resolution was introduced by Councilman Jared Mead and seconded by Councilman Nate Nehring.
Resolution
WHEREAS, in 1926, Black historian, author, journalist and founder of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, Carter G. Woodson, launched “Negro History Week” with the purpose of bringing attention to the need for acknowledging and accurately representing Black history in schools; and
WHEREAS, Woodson once remarked, “If a race has no history, it has no worthwhile tradition, it becomes a negligible factor in the thought of the world, and it stands in danger of being exterminated”; and
WHEREAS, Black United Students and Black educators at Kent State University used the foundation laid by Woodson to found Black History Month on February 1, 1970, and six years later the month was officially recognized by the federal government during the nation’s bicentennial; and WHEREAS, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH), the founders of Black History Month, announced that the 2022 theme of Black History Month is Black Health and Wellness; and
WHEREAS, Black History Month is a time to recognize and honor the many people, events, and significant contributions of Black people to our community, nation, and world despite living under difficult and unjust circumstances; and
WHEREAS, Black Americans continue to experience inequality and inequity as a result of institutional racism. Snohomish County acknowledges racism is systemic, has historically hurt and continues to fracture the health and well-being of Black Americans through generations; and
WHEREAS, approximately 25,000 Black people live, work, and play in Snohomish County and make significant contributions to our economy, arts and culture, science, education, and more;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, Snohomish County Council does hereby recognize February 2022 as Black History Month in Snohomish County.
In acknowledgement of disparate treatment, we recognize that Black Lives Matter and commit to continuing to fund programs that ensure safety and equity across our community. We will also include the voices of local Black organizations and residents in decision making to build thriving, sustainable communities that create a sense of belonging.
All Snohomish County residents and visitors are encouraged to join the Snohomish County Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (SCB-NAACP), Communities of Color Coalition (C3), Snohomish County Black Heritage Committee, and Snohomish County Government in honoring the rich history and experiences of Black and African Americans and celebrating their countless contributions to our community, nation, and world.
APPROVED this 31st day of January, 2022.
Author: Mario Lotmore
