Declaring February 2026 as 'Black History Month' in the City of Philadelphia and recognizing the 100th anniversary of its observance.

Declaring February 2026 as ‘Black History Month’ in the City of Philadelphia and recognizing the 100th anniversary of its observance. WHEREAS, Dr. Carter G. Woodson, born December 19 th , 1875, is nationally known as the founder of “Negro History Week” a precursor for what would become modern-day Black History Month; and WHEREAS , Philadelphia celebrated its first “Negro Achievement Week” in 1928 at the Germantown YMCA, featuring W.E.B. Du Bois, Alain Locke, and James Weldon Johnson, a week aimed to educate Americans and remind them of the countless injustices Black people endured; and WHEREAS , Since then, states across the country began to adopt similar celebrations, dedicating this time of the year to educate Americans on Black history, and to take time to reflect on its impact on American culture; and WHEREAS, In 1974, President Gerald Ford issued a Presidential Proclamation on the importance of Black History Month to all Americans, setting the precedent for future Presidents to acknowledge the contributions Black Americans make to this country; and WHEREAS, The recognition of Black History Month affirms the City’s commitment to acknowledging historical truths, elevating diverse voices, and promoting understanding, respect, and unity among all who live and work in the community; and WHEREAS, Philadelphia’s contribution to Black history can be seen through the legacy of prominent African American leaders born here or who came to prominence here like Cecil B. Moore, Richard…