HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-02-09 02/09/2026 Proclamationf1Tt COUNCIL
PROCLAIMING FEBRUARY AS BLACK HISTORY MONTH
WHEREAS, In 1926, historian Dr. Carter G. Woodson established what would become
Black History Month to bring special acknowledgement and awareness to Black
American accomplishments, contributions and history in the shaping of
America; and
WHEREAS, Since 1976, it has become a nationally recognized month -long celebration held
to acknowledge and pay tribute to the contributions made by Black Americans
to the history of our country that for years were omitted by society and history
books; and
WHEREAS, Black History is American History. Black Americans have shaped our nation's
identity and contributed greatly to the success of our country through invaluable
contributions in all professions and fields; and
WHEREAS, The City of Bangor encourages reading "Maine's Visible Black History: The
First Chronicle of Its People" by H. H. Price and Gerald E. Talbot, formerly of
Bangor and the first African American in the Maine Legislature; and
WHEREAS, During the month of February, as our nation takes pause to reflect on the
injustices and struggles overcome by Black Americans throughout our nation's
history and to pay tribute to the battles they have fought in the name of
equality, the City of Bangor encourages actions that advance equity; and
WHEREAS, We celebrate the contributions of Black Americans who have fought for a
country that lives up to its ideals, and for the true meaning of our founding
documents such as a Declaration of Independence that says "all men are
created equal"; and
WHEREAS, The City affirms that the observance of Black History Month calls us into
celebration and acknowledgement of the undeniable contributions of Black
Americans and the continued need to work to build an equitable, just society.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Susan M. Hawes, Mayor of the City of Bangor, on behalf of the City
Council and the citizens of Bangor, do hereby proclaim February as Black History Month to
honor the legacy and achievements of Black Americans throughout our shared history.
Given this the 9th day of February, 2026.
Susan M. Hawes, Mayor