ID SCR133

Commemorates February 2016 as Black History Month in Idaho and encourages citizens to reflect on the history of minorities in Idaho and the United States.

Documents that Dr. Carter G. Woodson founded Negro History Week in 1926, which was later expanded to Black History Month in 1976 during the nation's bicentennial.

Recognizes historical contributions of Black Idahoans including York (1805 Lewis and Clark Expedition), Elvina Moulton (1867), and the 25th Infantry Regiment Buffalo Soldiers who rescued residents during the 1910 Bitterroot Range wildfires.

Notes that Black Idahoans faced restrictions on housing, employment, unions, and public accommodations while contributing significantly despite never exceeding one percent of the state's population.

References passage of the federal Civil Rights Act of 1964 (co-sponsored by U.S. Senator Frank Church) and Idaho's Human Rights Act of 1969 (under Senator Phil Batt's leadership) prohibiting discrimination in employment, education, housing, and public accommodations.