WHEREAS:    Each year, February is designated Black History Month, a time for honoring and exploring the culture and history of African Americans and recognizing that our society’s rich diversity is one of our greatest strengths; 

WHEREAS:    The origins of Black History Month date back to 1915 when Dr. Carter G. Woodson founded the organization known today as the Association for the Study of African American Life and History;

WHEREAS:    Black History Month began as “Negro History Week” in February 1926 in the United States;

WHEREAS:    In the 1960’s, the week expanded into Black History Month as it coincides with the birthdays of Frederick Douglass (February 15) and Abraham Lincoln (February 12);

WHEREAS:    As we celebrate the history of Black Arkansans – brilliant African American artists, talented musicians and successful business and industry leaders – may we also recognize the barriers they have overcome;

WHEREAS:    Observing Black History Month provides opportunities to gain a deeper understanding of African American history and acknowledge the centuries of struggles for equality and freedom;

WHEREAS:    Black History Month also celebrates the achievements and contributions that African Americans have made in shaping our country and communities; and

WHEREAS:    We must not forget the men and women who worked tirelessly for freedom, civil rights and equality for all people and whose deeds helped to broaden and enrich American culture.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, SARAH HUCKABEE SANDERS, acting under the authority vested in me as the Governor of the State of Arkansas, do hereby proclaim February 2023, as  

“BLACK HISTORY MONTH”

 And urge the citizens of the state to take cognizance of this event and participate fittingly in its observance.
 
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the State of Arkansas to be affixed this 31st day of January, in the year of our Lord 2023.