BLACK HISTORY MONTH

During the month of February we honor the immeasurable achievements and contributions of African-Americans to our nation’s political, cultural, and economic fabric.

Here in Florida, we salute the African-American trailblazers who paved the way for future generations to make their own mark on history. From political pioneers like Congressman Josiah Walls to his contemporary heirs, Representative Bobby DuBose and Mayor Barbara Sharief, and other influential African American activists and visionaries who stand on the shoulders of greats like A. Philip Randolph and Mary McLeod Bethune, Florida has been tremendously enriched by the pioneers who have helped make our state and nation truly exceptional.

For decades, African American communities used the power of persistence and an unshakeable moral conviction to dissolve institutional oppression. Yet, there is still much more work to do – voting rights are under attack, quality health care and education for all are being undermined, and distrust of the justice system is as high as ever. There’s also a new Administration in the White House whose lack of commitment to many of these issues is clear, but against all odds, the resistance and resilience of the African-American community has always prevailed.

Inspired by the African-American tradition of resisting oppression wherever it rears its ugly head, we must all reaffirm our commitment to the ideals that are so often exemplified by past leaders – equality, justice, and dissent. This month, as we celebrate the indelible impact and achievement of our African-American brothers and sisters, we draw on their legacy as a source of strength to reinforce our own efforts to bend the arc of history towards justice and pursuit of a more perfect union.