Senator Stavisky Joins New Yorkers in Celebrating Black History Month

Albany, NY—Senator Toby Ann Stavisky (D-Flushing) joins her fellow New Yorkers to observe February as Black History Month.

“Black History Month commemorates the enormous impact that black Americans have had on the history and culture of our country. Black history is an integral and immutable part of the diverse American tapestry and I hope every American takes some time this month to learn something new about the rich contributions black Americans have made to our country,” said Senator Stavisky

Black History Month originated from “Negro History Week,” which was created in 1926 by historian Carter G. Woodson. The observance was later extended to the month of February because the second week of the month marks the birthdays of both President Abraham Lincoln and abolitionist Frederick Douglass.

“Remembering the dark parts of our history is one of our best tools for lighting a better way forward. As we celebrate the sacrifice and bravery of black Americans who suffered the inhumanity of slavery and who fought for equality, we must recommit ourselves to a fight for social justice that is not done,” said Senator Stavisky.

For more information about Black History Month, visit New York’s Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture at http://www.nypl.org/locations/schomburg or http://www.history.com/topics/black-history-month.