February 4, 2206 By Carol Britton Meyer
The select board this week issued a proclamation recognizing February as Black History Month – first celebrated nationally in 1976 during the United States Bicentennial.
”Black History Month has a rich cultural history throughout the United States, symbolizing the enduring strength and significance of civil rights pioneers including Martin Luther King, Jr., Rosa Parks, Phillis Wheatley, and Frederick Douglass,” according to the proclamation. “The Commonwealth “must continue to move towards equality, recognizing the barriers faced by the Black community and addressing structural racism and social, political, and economic inequalities.”
Black History Month is also an opportunity to recognize the many contributions and achievements by Black leaders and members of the community to the Commonwealth throughout the course of the nation’s history from Massachusetts natives such as W.E.B. Du Bois and Ruth M. Batson.
“Black History Month is a time to celebrate and acknowledge the significant history and contributions of the Black community throughout the Commonwealth and the United States, as well as to bring awareness to the challenges faced by the Black community and the methods in which they have tirelessly worked to conquer such adversity,” the proclamation states.
The board urges all citizens to recognize Black History Month and to participate “fittingly” in its observance.