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Proclamation declaring the month of February as Black History Month and commending the efforts of POISE Foundation for their essential role in shaping the story of our county and region through their many accomplishments and contributions.
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WHEREAS, during the month of February, we pay tribute to the countless people who stood up and sat in to help right the wrongs of our past and extend the promise of the American dream to all. We honor the contributions of African Americans since the formation of our country, and we stand steadfast to reaching a day when all individuals are judged on nothing but the content of their character; and
WHEREAS, the celebration of Black History Month began as “Negro History Week,” which was created in 1926 by Carter G. Woodson a noted African American historian, scholar, educator, and publisher. In 1976, it became a month-long celebration in the month of February, which was chosen to coincide with the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln ; and
WHEREAS, today, African American high school graduation and college enrollment rates are at an all-time high, and the African American unemployment rate is the lowest recorded in history. However, challenges still continue and obstacles still stand in the way of our country becoming what our Founding Fathers envisioned; and
WHEREAS, Allegheny County recognizes the champions of justice - along the Underground Railroad, aboard a bus in Alabama, a sit down at a “whites only” lunch counter in North Carolina, and all across the country - many of which gave the ultimate sacrifice so that one day each person will know the rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness; and
WHEREAS, a local organization, POISE Foundation is committed to addressing the inequalities and injustices that still linger; and
WHEREAS, POISE Foundation is a community foundation dedicated to helping Pittsburgh region's black community in achieving self-sustaining practices, through strategic leadership, collective giving, grantmaking and advocacy. In December 1980, POISE Foundation was incorporated in the state of Pennsylvania as a public charitable foundation. In its constant quest of promoting equity over the last 40 years, POISE Foundation has given more than $10,000,000 in grants and scholarships to deserving organizations and families in the Pittsburgh area and throughout the United States;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that I, Allegheny County Council Member DeWitt Walton, do hereby proclaim the month of February as Black History Month in Allegheny County, and I commend the efforts of POISE Foundation for their essential role in shaping the story of our county and region through their many accomplishments and contributions.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto caused the Seal of the County of Allegheny to be affixed this 25th day of February 2020.