Title
PROCLAIM FEBRUARY 2015 AS AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH
Staff Contact: Office of the Mayor
Presented By: Office of the Mayor
Accepted By: Mr. Robert Ashby, original member of the Tuskegee Airmen, along with Mr. Bill Norwood, Mr. Richard Toliver, and Mr. David Toliver, current and former Presidents of the Archer-Ragsdale Arizona Chapter of the Tuskegee Airmen
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Purpose and Recommended Action
Recommendation
This is a request for City Council to proclaim February 2014 as African American History Month. This month will be a time for Glendale citizens to celebrate, learn, and reflect on the innumerable contributions African Americans have made to our nation, our state, and our city.
Mr. Robert Ashby, original member of the Tuskegee Airmen, along with Mr. Bill Norwood, Mr. Richard Toliver, and Mr. David Toliver, current and former Presidents of the Archer-Ragsdale Arizona Chapter of the Tuskegee Airmen, will be present to accept the proclamation.body
Background
African Americans have played an integral role in the growth and development of our nation from the time of its founding to the present day. The resilience and strength of African Americans in our history inspires all to persevere in the struggle to overcome all types of adversity. The Tuskegee Airmen personified these values as they served their country with distinction during World War II by providing superior air support in spite of harsh racial prejudice. Following the war, many Tuskegee Airmen returned home and immersed themselves into making their communities a better place by overcoming and helping to dismantle the barriers to racial equality. The service of the Tuskegee Airmen ultimately led to the decision by Congress to desegregate the military.
Since 1976, the United States has recognized and celebrated February as a time to "seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history" (President Gerald R. Ford).
Community Benefit/Public Involvement
Proclaiming February 2015 as African American History Month benefits the city and the community, as it demonstrates Glendale's commitment towards recognizing and celebrating those who have overcome adversity during the struggle to improve our nation and community.