SENATE RESOLUTION
8665
By Senators Nobles, Bateman, Chapman, Cortes, Dhingra, Hasegawa, Hunt, Kauffman, Lovelett, Lovick, Pedersen, Robinson, Salomon, Shewmake, Stanford, Trudeau, Wellman, Valdez, C. Wilson, Alvarado, Cleveland, Frame, Krishnadasan, Liias, Orwall, Saldaña, Wagoner, and J. Wilson
WHEREAS, Each February, Black History Month is observed to recognize and honor the history, resilience, leadership, and contributions of Black Americans whose lives and labor have shaped Washington state and the nation; and
WHEREAS, Black history is American history, marked by generations who endured enslavement, segregation, and systemic injustice while continuing to build families, institutions, culture, and movements that expanded opportunity and strengthened democracy; and
WHEREAS, Black Washingtonians have made enduring contributions across every sector of civic life, including education, labor, military leadership, local businesses, the arts and sciences, faith, and public service, helping to shape the social, economic, and cultural fabric of our state; and
WHEREAS, These contributions reflect a tradition grounded in high standards, discipline, and care for community, carried forward by leaders who understood that the higher one aims, the higher future generations are able to rise; and
WHEREAS, The history and sacrifices of Black communities embody principles that continue to guide public service: Excellence in purpose, grace in leadership, empathy in decision making, kindness in community, and understanding across differences; and
WHEREAS, Honoring Black history also means honoring the ancestors whose courage, wisdom, and perseverance laid the foundation for progress, and whose legacy continues to guide leadership grounded in responsibility, humility, and care;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State Senate recognizes February as Black History Month and honors the enduring commitment, leadership, and history of Black Americans in Washington state and throughout the nation.
I, Sarah Bannister, Secretary of the Senate,
do hereby certify that this is a true and