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Proclamation Recognizing Black History Month February 2021 WHEREAS, over 400 years ago the first African Americans arrived in the United States, forever changing the course of our country; the legacy of this event affects us all, and understanding the complex history of race in America helps us to come together as Americans; and WHEREAS, African American culture has been a crucial element of the history of the United States, deserving of respect, honor and gratitude; and WHEREAS, Black Americans have made foundational cultural, educational, spiritual and patriotic contributions to the United States ofAmerica despite and throughout generations ofracial oppression and those contributions are nationally honored every February as Black History Month; and WHEREAS, Black History Month, also known as African American History Month, was borne of Carter G. Woodson's work in 1926 to educate African American youth about their heritage and the achievements of their ancestors; and WHEREAS, Black History Month also creates a specific opportunity for all people in Redwood City to reflect on and celebrate the historic and current accomplishments of African American people, both nationally and locally; and WHEREAS, on August 10, 2020 the City Council adopted a resolution declaring that Black Lives Matter, acknowledging the ongoing reality of racial inequity and reaffirming the City's commitment to racial equity; and WHEREAS, on October 12, 2020 the City Council further committed to anti -racist action by adding Equity as a Strategic Plan Guiding Principle, affirming that Redwood City will put equity first and urging a collective restart so that policies serve the entire community; and WHEREAS, the Sequoia Union High School Black Student Union (BSU) has provided a space of support and care for Black students and celebrated Black accomplishment through the Sequoia Union High School District's African American Baccalaureate ceremony; and WHEREAS, Taja Henderson and Adili Skillin have faithfully supported the Black Student Union for twenty f ve years, coordinating BSU activities, connecting youth to supportive people and opportunities in the Redwood City community, and improving the lives of African American and all children; and WHEREAS, the Sequoia Black Student Union represents voices of a next generation of Black leaders in our Redwood City community, whose aspirations andperspectives must be part ofplanning for our collective future. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT I, DIANE HOWARD, MAYOR OF REDWOOD CITY, on behalf of the City Council and the people of Redwood City, do hereby proclaim February 2021 as BLACK HISTORY MONTH in Redwood City and encourage all residents to observe this month in honor of the history made by Black Americans and continue our efforts to create a community that is more just, peaceful and prosperous for all. Diane 1 fiv dR Date: February 22, 2021 Lissette G' elle Hale, Vice Mayor C. &rL.� AliciaA (Wre. Cororcf)l Member Diana I1edd}q Cour it llet!%r Michael Smith, Council Allember