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TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 1-1-616 SO AS TO PROVIDE THAT THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY OF EVERY YEAR IS DESIGNATED AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH IN SOUTH CAROLINA.
Be it enacted by the General Assembly of the State of South Carolina:
SECTION 1. The General Assembly finds that:
(1) Black History Month, now to be designated as African American History Month in South Carolina, began as "Negro History Week", which was created in 1926 by Carter G. Woodson, a noted African American historian, scholar, educator, and publisher. It became a month-long celebration in 1976. The month of February was chosen to coincide with the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln;
(2) African Americans of all generations have contributed greatly to the growth, development, culture, and institutions of the United States; and
(3) to declare the month of February of each year as African American History Month in our State would honor the significant contributions to our country of these outstanding individuals.
SECTION 2. Article 9, Chapter 1, Title 1 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:
"Section 1-1-616. The month of February of every year is also designated African American History Month in South Carolina to be observed concurrently with American History Month as provided in Section 1-1-615, but with emphasis on the contributions of African Americans to the growth, development, culture, and institutions of our country. South Carolinians are encouraged to sponsor and participate in appropriate observances of African American History Month."
SECTION 3. This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor.
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