WA HR4701

2026 marks the centennial of Black History celebration, originating from Dr. Carter Woodson's establishment of Negro History Week in 1926 and expanded to February by President Gerald Ford in 1976

The resolution honors Black Americans' contributions across decades, including the 1920s Jazz Age, 1930s agricultural science advances, 1940s Great Migration to Washington, and ongoing civil rights achievements

Washington state milestones recognized include Marjorie Pitter-King as the first Black woman in the state legislature (1960s), the first all-Black 37th district delegation in the 1970s, and Rosa Gourdine Franklin as the first Black woman elected to the state Senate (1990s)

The House of Representatives celebrates Black History Month and recognizes contributions of Black Americans throughout the entire year, not only in February

The resolution encourages celebration of Black History Month in schools, universities, communities, and neighborhoods to foster better understanding of its importance in Washington and nationally