Dane County Supervisors Honor Black History Month

February 06, 2025
County Board Chair Patrick Miles, (608) 886-9167
County Board

2025 Black History Month theme is African Americans and Labor

 

Tonight, the Dane County Board recognized February 2025 as Black History Month by passing 2024-RES 307. Black history has been recognized annually in the United States since February 12, 1926, when Carter G. Woodson established Negro History Week. In 1986, Congress officially designated February as National Black (Afro-American) History Month. Black History Month is an annual celebration of the achievements of African Americans and a time to honor the central role of Black Americans in history.

 

“It has never been more important for us to acknowledge the history and celebrate the diversity that strengthens our community,” said County Board Chair Patrick Miles (Dist. 34). “The County Board honors the profound contributions of individuals of African heritage in our community and acknowledges the continued work ahead of us.”

 

The 2025 Black History Month theme is "African Americans and Labor," which focuses on the ways work intersects with the collective experiences of Black people and shapes their lives, cultures, and histories—and the societies in which we all live.

 

“Black women's contributions to the Dane County workforce and economy are invaluable, yet Black women nationwide still earn only 66.5 cents for every dollar earned by a white man," said Supervisor April Kigeya (Dist. 15). "I thank my fellow County Board members for passing this resolution and ask my colleagues to use our legislative power to prioritize actions that make Dane County a better place for everyone to live-not just during one month, but every day of the year. This includes advocating for fair wages, equitable opportunities, and creating an environment where Black women are respected, valued, and treated with the dignity they deserve."

 

The Dane County Board invited Dr. Ruben L. Anthony, Jr., president and CEO of the Urban League of Greater Madison, to speak on the Black History Month resolution.

 

“I am deeply grateful for the Board’s leadership and unwavering commitment to standing on the side of justice,” said Dr. Ruben L. Anthony, Jr. “Your acknowledgment of Black History is not just a ceremonial gesture, but a powerful affirmation that we will not forget the struggles of the past, nor will we ignore the work that lies ahead.”