Finger Lakes Today

This years 2023 Black History Theme is: Black Resistance.

This is a call to everyone, inside and outside the city, to study the history of Black Americans’ responses to establish safe spaces, where Black life can be sustained, reinvigorated, and respected. 

Proclamation

WHEREAS, the City of Geneva takes pride in recognizing February 2023 as Black History Month, a time dedicated to remembering and celebrating Black culture, history, contributions and sacrifices made to create a brighter future for all Americans; and

WHEREAS, Black History Month celebrates the achievements of African Americans, who have been instrumental in shaping the character, culture and economic life of our city, state and nation; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Carter G. Woodson, founder of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, first launched “Negro History Week” in 1926, and is widely regarded as the father of Black History; and

WHEREAS, in 1976 the informal expansion of Negro History Week to Black History Month was officially recognized by the United States government; and

WHEREAS, the 2023 theme, “Black Resistance,” focuses specifically on the movement of Black Americans’ responses to establish safe spaces, where Black life can be sustained, reinvigorated, and respected.: and

WHEREAS, Black History Month is an occasion to rediscover the enduring stories of African Americans and the gifts of freedom, purpose, and opportunity they have bestowed on future generations. It is also a time to commemorate the countless contributions of African Americans, many of whom lived through and overcame the scourge of segregation, racial prejudice, and discrimination to enrich every fiber of American life. 

Their examples of heroism, patriotism, and enterprise have given people of all background’s confidence, courage, and faith to pursue their own dreams; and

WHEREAS, Black History Month is a time to recognize and honor the many people, events, and significant contributions of Black and African Americans to our community, nation, and world.

NOW THEREFORE, I, Steve Valentino, the Mayor of the City of Geneva, on behalf of the City Council, do hereby proclaim the month of February 2023 as Black History Month and ask all residents of Geneva to celebrate diversity and reflect on historical events, the Culture, the Heritage, Black Power, Black Lives Matter, Africa, America and Famous Figures. 

Join me in commemorating the countless contributions of African Americans to our city, to our Nation and the world.

2023 Black History Theme Executive Summary

Original source can be found here.