Title
Recognizing June 2026 as Black Music Month in the City of Saint Paul and Honoring the Third Annual Black Music Month Honorees.
Body
WHEREAS, Black Music Month, later renamed African American Music Appreciation Month, was established in 1979 by President Jimmy Carter following advocacy from Kenny Gamble, Dyana Williams, Ed Wright, and the Black Music Association to recognize, celebrate, and strengthen the contributions of Black artists and the Black music industry; and
WHEREAS, the first national celebration was held on the White House lawn and has since grown into a nationwide observance honoring the profound influence of Black music on American culture and society; and
WHEREAS, Black music is among the most influential cultural contributions in the history of the United States, serving as a source of creativity, innovation, healing, resistance, spiritual expression, storytelling, and community building across generations; and
WHEREAS, the sounds born from Black communities including: spirituals, gospel, blues, jazz, soul, rhythm and blues, funk, hip hop, house, Afrobeat, classical, and contemporary genres. These genres have shaped music throughout the world and inspired movements and global marketing campaigns; and
WHEREAS, music has long served as a bridge between generations, preserving culture, documenting history, uplifting communities, and providing hope during times of uncertainty and adversity; and
WHEREAS, the City of Saint have been enriched by generations of Black musicians, composers, vocalists, producers, educators, DJs, promoters, and cultural institutions whose contributions have strengthened and activated the commercial corridors and public spaces; and
WHEREAS, the legacy of Saint Paul's historic Rondo neighborhood and Black cultural communities continues to influence and inspire artists whose work reflects the resilience, creativity, and excellence of Black culture; and
WHEREAS, Saint Paul is home to a vibrant ecosystem of a...
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