AR HR1019

House of Representatives celebrates Black History Month during February 2022 and recognizes contributions by African American individuals throughout state and national history

Acknowledges that African American contributions to social growth, economy, military, sciences, and arts have historically been overlooked

Notes "Negro History Week" began in 1926, inspired by birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, and evolved into Black History Month celebrated annually since 1976

Recognizes both well-known figures (Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, Jackie Robinson, Maya Angelou) and lesser-known historical figures (Crispus Attucks, William Harvey Carney, Constance Baker-Motley)

Applauds the sacrifices and contributions of African American soldiers, noting U.S. Armed Forces integration did not occur until 1948 under President Harry S. Truman's executive order