Submitted by Suanne Z. Thamm
Reporter – News Analyst
February 4, 2021
As the first item of business on their February 2, 2021 Regular Meeting Agenda, the Fernandina Beach City Commission (FBCC) declared February 2021 National African American History Month. Mayor Mike Lednovich read the Proclamation on behalf of the FBCC:
WHEREAS, African American History Month was established in 1926 by Dr. Carter G. Woodson who sought to bring national attention to the important contributions African Americans made to the history of the United States. Dr. Woodson chose February because it includes the birthdays of American Abolitionist Mr. Frederick Douglass, American Poet Mr. Langston Hughes, and President Abraham Lincoln; and
WHEREAS, from the Revolutionary War through the abolitionist movement, to marches across America today, African Americans remain devoted to the proposition that all of us are created equal, even when their own rights are denied. As we rejoice in the victories won by men and women who believed in the idea of a just and fair America, we remember that, throughout history, our success has been driven by bold individuals who were willing to speak out and change the status quo; and
WHEREAS, on federal, state, and local levels, African Americans fundamentally and robustly shaped our Nation’s economic strength, wartime might, and educational systems.
African Americans may also be credited with making vital advancements in physics, chemistry,
biology, medicine, law, and literature, to name a few; and
WHEREAS, for the past ninety-five years, Americans from all walks of life, humbly and reverently observe African American History month in recognition of the many, distinct, and honorable contributions African Americans have provided throughout our great Nation’s history.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Michael A. Lednovich, by virtue of the authority vested in me as Mayor of the City of Fernandina Beach, Florida, do hereby proclaim the month of February 2021, as
“NATIONAL AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH”
and urge all citizens to draw strength from the story of hard-won progress, which not only defines the African American experience, but also lies at the heart of our Nation’s continued work towards an inclusive future.
In accepting the Proclamation amidst audience applause community activist Wayne Peterson thanked the City for all it did to help and honor the late former Mayor Charles Albert. Peterson said, “The time is always right to do what is right. We give special honor and recognition to Mr. Charles Albert and recognize former Vice Mayor Patricia Thompson. On behalf of all the Blacks in this city of Fernandina Beach, we will never forget your kindness.”