New York State Executive Chamber | Governor Eliot Spitzer

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Proclamation

Whereas, each February, communities across this state and nation join to celebrate Black History Month and this year marks the 83rd such annual observance, providing New Yorkers with an opportunity to pay tribute to the African American community and the richness of Black culture that has helped shape our country; and

Whereas, this year=s theme, "Carter G. Woodson and the Origins of Multiculturalism," pays tribute to the great African American historian, author, journalist and founder of Black History Month, highlighting the profound influence of this visionary pioneer and his immense contributions to the Black community, and to preserving its history both here in the United States and throughout the world; and

Whereas, today, the legacy of the Black community is significant and filled with accounts of other heroic individuals - Harriet Tubman, W.E.B. DuBois, Sojourner Truth, Frederick Douglass, Paul Robeson and the immortal Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. - as these and other Black leaders have left a permanent mark upon our civilization; and

Whereas, further adding to the greatness of this nation, the Black community remains a source of pride and interest for all New Yorkers and we applaud Black institutions that advance this heritage by serving as forces of progress and change for new generations, and we value the strength and dedication of community-minded Black Americans who provide an example for others through their efforts; and

Whereas, the history of Black Americans is an enduring foundation upon which the community stands and an inspiration to Americans of all backgrounds, and it serves as a steadfast reminder of the principles that we share as a society and, moreover, a proud example of the spirit of Black America; and

Whereas, Black History Month provides an opportunity for us to remember the many Black Americans who contributed to a life of freedom in the Americas as today our brothers and sisters of African American heritage continue to realize the dreams of their ancestors and further the hopes of future generations;

Now, Therefore, I, Eliot Spitzer, Governor of the State of New York, do hereby proclaim February 2008 as BLACK HISTORY MONTH in the Empire State.

G i v e n under my hand and the Privy Seal of the State at the Capitol in the City of Albany this twenty-fourth day of January in the year two thousand eight.

Eliot Spitzer, Governor

Richard Baum, Secretary to the Governor