Douglass; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Woodson, often referred to as the "Father of
Black History," dedicated his life to the field of African-
American history and encouraged the coordinated teaching and
study of the history of African Americans in our nation's
schools; and
WHEREAS, In 1928, ASALH established its first annual theme
for what was then known as "Negro History Week," which was
"Civilization: A World Achievement"; and
WHEREAS, Over the course of several decades following the
inception of "Negro History Week," many local municipalities,
colleges and universities across the country began celebrating
the observance in an augmented form as "Black History Month";
and
WHEREAS, In 1976, President Gerald Ford officially recognized
and included "Black History Month" as part of the United States
Bicentennial, urging Americans to "seize the opportunity to
honor the too often neglected accomplishments of black Americans
in every area of human endeavor throughout our history"; and
WHEREAS, The Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus has always
endeavored to vigorously advocate for the needs of all people of
color in this Commonwealth by acting as a unified voice
concerning the issues that most acutely impact their daily
lives; and
WHEREAS, This year's "Black History Month" theme, as
established and adopted by ASALH, is "The Black Family:
Representation, Identity, and Diversity"; and
WHEREAS, "Black History Month" is an opportunity for all
citizens to commemorate the historical hardships and
achievements of African Americans, laud their invaluable
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