The County Executive’s Corner: Honoring Black History Month in Rockland County

Each February, we pause as a nation to recognize Black History Month — a time to honor the extraordinary contributions, resilience, and achievements of African Americans throughout our history. Here in Rockland County, I was proud to officially proclaim February as Black History Month and to have our Acting Human Rights Commissioner, Myrnia Bass-Hargrove, present the proclamation to the African American Historical Society of Rockland.

Black History Month began in 1926 as “Negro History Week,” founded by historian Dr. Carter G. Woodson. Fifty years later, during our nation’s Bicentennial in 1976, it was expanded to a month-long observance. What started as a movement to ensure Black history was recognized and preserved has grown into a national reflection on the impact African Americans have had on every facet of American life.

From art and science to business, education, public service, sports, and the ongoing fight for civil rights and social justice, the contributions of African Americans have helped shape our country and strengthen our communities. Their influence is woven into the very fabric of our nation.

Rockland County is home to a vibrant and diverse African American community that continues to enrich our region culturally, economically, and socially. Black History Month gives us the opportunity not only to celebrate these contributions, but also to reflect on the progress we have made — and the work that still lies ahead in the pursuit of equity and justice for all.

I encourage all residents to take part in local events, educational programs, and community activities throughout the month. Learning about Black history is not simply about looking to the past; it is about understanding one another more deeply and working together to build a future grounded in diversity, inclusion, and unity.

Black History Month reminds us that our strength as a county — and as a nation — comes from the richness of our shared stories and the respect we show one another. Let us use this month as an opportunity to listen, learn, and recommit ourselves to building a stronger Rockland for everyone.