Bill Text: MI HR0197 | 2023-2024 | 102nd Legislature | Enrolled
Bill Title: A resolution to declare February 2024 as Black History Month in the state of Michigan.
Spectrum: Partisan Bill (Democrat 36-1)
Status: (Passed) 2024-02-28 - Adopted [HR0197 Detail]
Download: Michigan-2023-HR0197-Enrolled.html
house resolution no.197
Reps. Grant, McKinney, Brabec, Neeley, O'Neal, Tyrone Carter, Young, Wilson, Edwards, Scott, Hoskins, Wegela, Rheingans, McFall, Martus, Fitzgerald, Arbit, Price, Byrnes, Breen, Glanville, Coffia, Hope, Mentzer, Rogers, Haadsma, Morse, Skaggs, MacDonell, Andrews, Whitsett, Churches, Dievendorf, Hill, Paiz, Schuette and Witwer offered the following resolution:
A resolution to declare February 2024 as Black History Month in the state of Michigan.
Whereas, The origins of Black History Month began in 1915 after the Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution abolished slavery in the United States. Since 1976, every U.S. President has adopted the month of February as Black History Month, an annual celebration of African-American achievements and roles in our history; and
Whereas, As a result of the civil rights movement and a growing awareness of black identity, Black History Month is a time to reflect on the burdens of racial prejudice and explore, understand, and appreciate the identities and cultures across and within the African diaspora; and
Whereas, We pay tribute to Dr. Carter G. Woodson, who organized a national Negro History Week as an initiative to bring national attention to the contributions of black people throughout American history, evolving into a month-long celebration of black progress and power; and
Whereas, President Gerald R. Ford officially recognized Black History Month in 1976, calling upon the public to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history”; and
Whereas, Michigan recognizes the injustices that African-Americans have endured and commends the African-American community for the continuous pursuit of overcoming those injustices while changing the course and nature of history. We honor the prominent leaders and activists who have paved the way for equality and justice; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare February 2024 as Black History Month in the state of Michigan; and be it further
Resolved, That we honor the contributions and sacrifices made toward building pride in black history and educating all Americans; and be it further
Resolved, That we join other organizations throughout the state of Michigan and this country to use this occasion to raise awareness about the hardships African-Americans have endured, celebrate the milestones achieved, and to continue the unrelenting pursuit of equality and justice for all.
