The Natchitoches City Council approved a proclamation at its meeting on Feb. 13 to proclaim the month of February 2023 as African American History Month. The history of this great country has been written by men and women of every race, religion and ethnic background and African American History Month gives us the opportunity to recognize the extraordinary contributions African Americans have made to the rich cultural history of our nation. The City recognizes the courage and tenacity of so many hard-working African Americans whose legacies are woven into the fabric of the country. Society must continue to encourage and demand children reach for the full measure of their potential and ambitions through education. Each February the City recognizes African American History Month to reflect upon how far the US has come as a Nation and how far Natchitoches has come as a community, and what challenges remain. Each year a national theme is chosen by The Association for the Study of African American Life and History. The 2023 national theme, “Black Resistance,” explores how African Americans have addressed historic and ongoing disadvantage and oppression, as evidenced by recent events.

President of the Concerned Citizens Association Johnny Barnes shared information on an upcoming event to honor and recognize six people from throughout the community on Wednesday, Feb. 15 from 5:30-8 pm at the MLK Center.

There are also plans to hold a Black History Month Parade on Saturday, Feb. 25.

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