A house RESOLUTION

 

to honor Richland school district two for formally recognizing february 2026 as the centennial celebration of black history month AND TO commend the district for its century-long excellence in education.

 

Whereas, the history and contributions of African Americans in this country have been celebrated since February 1926. Begun as Negro History Week by noted historian Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History, the celebration was strategically set for the second week to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, both central figures to Black freedom; and

 

Whereas, the national theme for 2026, "A Century of Black History Commemorations" is a testament to Woodson's vision. Widely regarded as the father of Black history, Woodson saw the week as a far-reaching, organized, and sustained movement that would reshape how Black Americans viewed themselves and how they were viewed by the world; and

 

Whereas, the first celebration began February 7, 1926, and quickly gained popularity, encouraging schools and communities to participate in studying the African American experience. Through Woodson's leadership, Negro History Week evolved into a significant African American and American cultural institution, with annual themes and educational materials highlighting the profound contributions of people of African descent to history and modern culture; and

 

Whereas, in 1976, Gerald R. Ford became the first president of the United States to issue an official message recognizing Black History Month during the nation's bicentennial celebration. In 1986, the United States Congress enacted Public Law 99-244, officially designating the month of February as Black History Month; and

 

Whereas, each February, Black History Month is observed in schools throughout the nation, in cultural heritage sites, public spaces, workplaces, houses of worship, and homes across the United States and around the world; and

 

Whereas, in the Palmetto State, Richland School District Two proudly celebrates one hundred years of excellence in education, commemorating a century of learning, leadership, and legacy that has shaped generations of students and strengthened the community. For a century, the district has cultivated leaders, innovators, and changemakers whose impact extends far beyond the district's boundaries and into mainstream America; and

 

Whereas, Richland School District Two will host its Annual Black History Month Student Wax Museum and Honoree Recognition Program on Monday, February 23, 2026. The program will observe the centennial celebration of national Black history and the district's one-hundred-year legacy of educational excellence; and

 

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives commend Richland School District Two for its celebration of Black history and the district's centennial year celebrating and reaffirming its commitment to educational excellence, and cultural awareness of African Americans to the Palmetto State, the nation, and the world.  Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

 

That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, honor Richland School District Two for formally recognizing February 2026 as the centennial celebration of Black History Month and commend the district for its century-long excellence in education.

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to Richland School District Two.

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