By Jim Bloch
Mayor Anita Ashford presented a proclamation declaring February as Black History Month to Keshia-ann Evans, the first vice president of the Port Huron branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.
Ashford made the presentation at the regular meeting of the city council held Feb. 10.
“We recognize the extraordinary contributions that Black Americans have made to our nation, our state and our city,” said Ashford, reading from the document, as heard on the recording of the meeting posted on YouTube. “Civil rights activists, such as Martin Luther King, Jr., had the courage and perseverance to inspire the nation to judge a person by the content of their character and not by the color of their skin. As a result of their hard work, intelligence and determination, Black Americans have made valuable and lasting contributions, achieving success in all aspects of society, including business, education, politics, science and the arts.”
The special month gives residents an opportunity to reflect upon the struggle for freedom and equal opportunity in the US, Ashford said.
“Black History Month is a time for all residents to remember the stories and teachings of those who helped build our nation, who took a stance against prejudice and built lives of dignity and opportunity, advanced the cause of civil rights, and strengthened families and communities,” Ashford said.
The city of Port Huron continues to work toward becoming an inclusive city, said the mayor, in which all citizens are respected and recognized for their contributions.
Evans thanked Ashford on behalf of the NAACP and hugged her.
Diversity and inclusion are not merely buzzwords, Evans said. They signify the city’s and the country’s ongoing commitment to a society in which all people feel seen, heard and valued.
Many challenges remain, she said, calling for residents to listen to one another and build bridges between each other.
“Black History Month serves as a reminder that our country’s strength lies in its diversity,” Evans said.
Jim Bloch is a freelance writer based in St. Clair, Michigan. Contact him at bloch.jim@gmail.com.
