Blog: Celebrating Black History

Statement

Throughout the month of February, all across the country, we commemorate African Americans--their accomplishments, their struggles, and their overall spirit-- as a part of shaping this nation.

At the Capitol today, I was honored to welcome folks to the Black History Month Celebration hosted by the Kentucky Black Legislative Caucus.

African-Americans have been a part of Kentucky history since they accompanied Daniel Boone along his journey to the new frontier in 1769.

Since then, Kentucky has been home to accomplished African-Americans in all walks of life --from abolitionist William Wells Brown to inventor Garrett Morgan to baseball great Lou Johnson and the man they simply call "the Greatest"-Muhammad Ali.

In 1926, the recognition of Black History even began with a graduate of Berea College -- Dr. Carter G. Woodson, who was an African American historian, author and journalist.

My administration continues to be involved in efforts to preserve Kentucky's African American history for future generations.

Recently, we celebrated the renovation of Cherokee Park in Aurora. The historic African-American state park had been in disrepair for years after closing due to desegregation in the 1960's. Alongside "Friends of Cherokee Park" last September, we were able to reopen the famous facility.

A little over a year ago, I handed the keys to the Kentucky Center for African American Heritage in Louisville over to the museum's foundation. The one-of-a-kind space will serve as an African American History hub for Kentuckians all across the state to utilize for years to come.

Black History Month not only helps us celebrate African Americans who have contributed to American history, but it helps remind us to never repeat the ignorant acts and shameful mistakes of our ancestors.

Yet while we have come a long way since the days of Dr. Carter G. Woodson, we as a state and a nation still have strides to take in improving diversity relations.

We must continue to work toward living a life together--appreciating our differences, embracing our unity.

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