Antioch City Council approves proclamation to honor February as Black History Month
With the theme, “One Century of Celebrating Black History”
By Allen D. Payton
During their meeting on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, the Antioch City Council adopted a proclamation honoring February as Black History Month with the theme, “One Century of Celebrating Black History,” on a 3-0 vote. Absent were Mayor Ron Bernal, who was traveling to Washington, D.C. for the U.S. Conference of Mayors and District 4 Councilwoman Monica Wilson, whose mother just passed.
WHEREAS, the origins of Black History Month can be traced back to 1915, half a century after the Thirteenth Amendment abolished slavery in the United States;
WHEREAS, in 1976, Black History Month was formally adopted to honor and affirm the importance of Black History throughout our American experience, and is full of Individuals who took a stance against prejudice, advanced the cause of civil rights, strengthened families, communities, and our nation;
WHEREAS, the Black History Month 2026 theme, “One Century of Celebrating Black History,” focuses on three interconnected pillars that honor the past, empower the future, and celebrate the present: Preserving Black History, which safeguards the legacy, stories, and contributions of African Americans; and Black History Empowering Us for the Future, which highlights how knowledge of Black history inspires leadership, innovation, and progress; and Celebrating Black Culture, which uplifts the richness, creativity, and influence of Black cultural expression. Together, these pillars recognize the diverse and profound ways in which African Americans’ contributions continue to shape society;
WHEREAS, because of their determination, hard work, and perseverance, African Americans have made valuable and lasting contributions to our community and our state, achieving exceptional success in all aspects of society including business, education, politics, science, and the arts;
WHEREAS, the City of Antioch continues to work toward becoming an inclusive community in which all residents – past, present, and future – are respected and recognized for their contributions and potential contributions to our community, the state, the country, and the world; and
WHEREAS, the City of Antioch is proud to honor the history and contributions of African Americans in our community, throughout our state, and our nation.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, RON BERNAL, Mayor of the City of Antioch, hereby proclaim February 2026 to be “Black History Month.” I encourage all citizens to celebrate our diverse heritage and culture and to continue our efforts to create a world that is more just, peaceful, and prosperous for all.
JANUARY 27, 2026
RON BERNAL, Mayor
To learn more about Black History Month and “A Century of Black History Commemorations” visit ASALH – The Founders of Black History Month | Black History Month.
the attachments to this post:
Celebration Black History Month 100
City of Antioch 2026 Black History Month Proclamation
