Title
Recognizing Black History Month 2011 - Celebrating Firsts.
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WHEREAS, Black History Month, as we know it today, started its month-long observance in 1976 to celebrate the African American people and to highlight the role African Americans have played in the development of medicine, politics, government, community leadership, science, business, religion, education, literature, theater, music, arts, sports and many other areas of our civic and national culture; and,
WHEREAS, during this month, we recognize the courage and tenacity of many hard working Americans whose legacies are woven into the history and fabric of our city and our nation and honor the extraordinary achievements of African Americans and their essential role in shaping our community; and,
WHEREAS, during this years observance of Black History Month, the City of Saint Paul will recognize the pioneers in our midst by highlighting African American leaders who have paved the way in our community including Debbie Montgomery, the first African American beat patrol officer in Saint Paul; Tracey Williams-Dillard, the CEO of the Spokesman Recorder Minnesotas oldest minority-owned newspaper; Commissioner Toni Carter, the first African American Ramsey County Commissioner; Representative Rena Moran, the first African American legislator to represent a Saint Paul district; Deputy Mayor Paul Williams, the first African American Deputy Mayor in Saint Paul; and Bill Wilson, the first African American Saint Paul City Council Member and President; and,
WHEREAS, by sharing the stories of these historic firsts, we better understand the contributions of other extraordinary men and women, who have given their collective efforts, energy, and spirit to breaking down barriers and striving to create a city that ensures equal opportunity, economic security and civil rights for all;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Saint Paul City Council recognizes February, 2011 as Black History Month, Celebrating Fir...
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