Recognizing Black History Month in Delaware County
County Council honors Penn Wood Middle School, Cheyney University and the Delaware County Library System’s Diversity Committee
Delaware County Council recognized February as Black History Month during the Feb. 6 public council meeting. Black History Month, which is nationally celebrated during the month of February, was started by historian Carter G. Woodson and other prominent African Americans. Today, it is an annual celebration of the achievements by African Americans and a time to recognize the central role they had in shaping U.S. history.
“Council is proud to recognize the accomplishments of African Americans throughout our history, who have helped move our country toward a more equal and just society,” said Delaware County Council Chairman John McBlain. “We are also proud to honor individuals and organizations who work to celebrate and keep African American history alive in our community.”
During the meeting, council recognized various members of the community who work to educate, celebrate and promote African American history and culture through education and the arts. Council presented resolutions to members of Penn Wood Middle School, Cheyney University and the Delaware County Library System’s Diversity Committee.
Penn Wood Middle School has a program titled, “Young, Gifted, and Black,” which celebrates Black History through dance, music, and drama. The program, under the direction of Judy Jordan and Renee Wayne, features 25 talented Penn Wood Middle School students who will be performing for their student body, faculty, and staff at Penn Wood in celebration of Black History Month. Ms. Wayne wrote the show, curating and selecting inspirational African Americans to be featured, in order to give the students a sense of living history. Ms. Wayne selected African Americans under the age of 21 who are outstanding in their fields. Students will share the contributions of these inspirational young people through reflections of dance, song, poetry, biographical readings, and short dramatic pieces.
Cheyney University, founded in 1837, was established to educate the descendants of the African race. Today, Cheyney University students represent a variety of races, cultures, and nationalities who receive educational instruction. Cheyney University is the oldest historically black college/university in the nation. Cheyney University Fine Arts Honor Society students have worked to create an art exhibit, “Harlem Renaissance Experience” in honor of Black History Month. The exhibit was showcased during the Black Migrations Conference at the State Capitol on Feb. 4 and will also be displayed at Arcadia University in March.
Members of the Delaware County Libraries’ Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee were also recognized in honor of Black History Month. The Committee has planned a year-long celebration for the 50th anniversary of the Coretta Scott King Book Awards. The Coretta Scott King Book Awards were designed to commemorate the life and works of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and honor Mrs. Coretta Scott King for her courage and determination to continue the work for peace. Each year, outstanding books for young adults and children by African American authors and illustrators that reflect the African American experience are recognized. Delaware County Libraries’ Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Coretta Scott King Book Awards by highlighting 50 events throughout the year at various Delaware County Libraries.
Council Recognizes Penn Wood Middle School in Honor of Black History Month
Council Recognizes Cheyney University in Honor of Black History Month
Council Recognizes Delaware County Libraries’ Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee in Honor of Black History Month