Ceremony celebrates Black History Month in Honolulu – Hawaii News Now

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi hosted a special event Wednesday in honor of Black History Month.
The ceremony at Mission Memorial Auditorium celebrated the contributions of Black Americans to Oahu, Hawaii, and country.
Camille Nelson, dean of the William S. Richardson School of Law at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, delivered the keynote speech.
“Our ongoing collective journey is as important today is as important today as it was decades ago when the roots of Black History Month were planted,” Nelson said.
“We can be an exemplar that can amplify the lessons of Black History Month every single day of the year. We can co-create a society deeply rooted in aloha, a commitment to justice, and a dedication to the flourishing and uplift of all of our community members,” Nelson said.
The mayor issued a proclamation declaring February as Black History Month for the City and County of Honolulu.
“In the spirit of Black History Month, we are tremendously proud to acknowledge all of the Black Americans that have played such a crucial role in defining who we are as a people and as an island, and we are forever grateful for their contributions and leadership,” he said.
This year’s theme for Black History Month is “African Americans and Labor” and encourages the public to learn about the history of enslavement and paid work, and its lingering disparities.
Also in honor of Black History Month, Honolulu Hale was illuminated in navy blue and yellow – the colors of the NAACP – from sunset on Feb. 11 to sunrise of Feb. 12.
Visit Honolulu Hawaii NAACP on Facebook and Instagram.
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