Whereas, for over two and a half centuries African Americans have struggled against the cruelties of slavery, discrimination, and economic and social inequality; and

Whereas, despite these extraordinary human trials, African Americans have fiercely, lovingly and courageously shaped American society and values through service, leadership, intellectual power and the development of moral character in every enterprise and walk of life; and

Whereas, Black History Month challenges us to learn the deeds of Sam Smith, Crispus Attucks, Marion Anderson, Kathleen Battle, Homer A. Plessy, Paul Cuffe, Frederick Douglas, George Washington Carver, Charles Hamilton Houston, Gwendolyn Brooks, Rosa Parks, Ira Aldridge, Ernest Just, James Weldon Johnson, Claude McKay, Countee Cullen, Nella Larsen, Ida B. Wells, Edward A Harleston, Harriet Jacobs, William Johnson, Arron Douglas, Marcus Garvey, James Baldwin, Fannie Lou Hamer, Augusta Savage, Dr. Martin Luther King, Thurgood Marshall, Constance Baker, Shirley Chisolm, Clara McBride Hale, Emma Ray, Paul Robeson, Brigadier General Clara L. Adams-Enders, Toni Morrison, Jessye Norman, Spike Lee, Reverend Jesse Jackson, Maxine Waters, Ron Brown, Barbara Jordan, Willie Brown, Dr. Bernard C. Watson, William and Carolyn Smith, Marion Wright Edleman, August Wilson, Betye Saar, Anita Hill, Christina Johnson, Arthur Mitchell, Bill Russell, Arthur Ashe, Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Frederick Carlton Lewis, Ken Griffey, Jr., Alan Page, John Osborne, and the names and deeds of millions of everyday African American heroes; and

Whereas, the message of Black History Month summons every member of our Seattle community to strive together for a future that does not compromise any American's right and access to the quest for knowledge, economic achievement, spiritual development and cultural richness; and

Whereas, the City of Seattle celebrates February 2000 as Black History Month and recognizes the past and present contributions of African Americans to American history.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEATTLE, THE MAYOR CONCURRING THAT:

The City of Seattle joins in honoring Black History Month and the credence, history and richness of African Americans in our community.

Adopted by the City Council the 22nd day of February, 2000, and signed by me in open session in authentication of its adoption this 22nd day of February, 2000. ______________________________________ President of the City Council

THE MAYOR CONCURRING: ________________________________________ Paul Schell, Mayor

Filed by me this _____ day of _______________, 2000. ______________________________________ City Clerk CC/tld 30124 2/22/00 V #2