NY J01535

Requests Governor Kathy Hochul proclaim February 2026 as Black History Month in New York State

Recognizes key historical milestones including the Emancipation Proclamation (January 1, 1863) and the 13th Amendment (December 6, 1865) that abolished slavery

Honors the origins of Black History Month, established as Negro History Week in 1926 by Dr. Carter G. Woodson and later expanded to a month-long observance

Celebrates contributions of African Americans across civil rights, science, arts, music, literature, sports, and business, naming numerous historical and contemporary figures

Affirms that Black history is American history and commends the African-American community for preserving traditions that benefit all Americans