Bill Text: MI HR0245 | 2017-2018 | 99th Legislature | Enrolled
Bill Title: A resolution to declare February 2018 as Black History Month in the state of Michigan.
Spectrum: Partisan Bill (Democrat 1-0)
Status: (Passed) 2018-02-06 - Adopted [HR0245 Detail]
Download: Michigan-2017-HR0245-Enrolled.html
Reps. Geiss, Canfield, Chirkun, Clemente, Cochran, Crawford, Elder, Faris, Gay-Dagnogo, Green, Greig, Howrylak, Hughes, Jones, Kelly, Kosowski, Liberati, Love, Pagan, Phelps, Rabhi, Rendon, Sabo, Sneller, Sowerby, Webber, Wittenberg, and Yanez offered the following resolution:
House Resolution No. 245.
A resolution to declare February 2018 as Black History Month in the state of Michigan.
Whereas, The origins of Black History Month begin in 1915 after the Thirteenth Amendment abolished slavery in the United States. Since 1976, every President has adopted the month of February as Black History Month, an annual celebration of African-American achievements and roles in U.S. History; and
Whereas, Due to 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 that has evolved 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, The state of Michigan recognizes the injustices that African Americans have endured and commends the African-American community for the continuous pursuit of overcoming those injustices and 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 2018 as Black History Month in the state of Michigan. We honor the contributions and sacrifices made in 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 of the hardships African Americans have endured, celebrate the milestones we have achieved, and continue the unrelenting pursuit of equality and justice for all.
