IL HR0079

Declares February 28, 2023 as Black Women's History Day in Illinois to honor the accomplishments, power, beauty, courage, intelligence, ingenuity, stewardship, and leadership of Black women.

Recognizes Black women's historical contributions to the United States from enslavement through contemporary achievements in journalism, education, medicine, art, law, government, and business.

Highlights notable Black women from Illinois including Ida B. Wells Barnett, Carol Moseley Braun, Gwendolyn Brooks, Bessie Coleman, Jennifer Hudson, Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Michelle Obama, and Oprah Winfrey.

Notes that February 28 intentionally bridges Black History Month (February) and Women's History Month (March) to acknowledge the unique intersectionality of being both Black and a woman.

Encourages all Illinoisans to acknowledge the accomplishments of Black women in their communities, recognizing Black women's history as part of American history.