Springfield – Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs hosted a celebration to commemorate Black History Month and honor leaders in the African American community.
The event, held at the Marine Bank Building at 1 E. Old State Capitol Plaza, was an opportunity to reflect on the great achievements of Black leaders. The eight honorees included a businesswoman, a youth group executive, a girls’ nonprofit founder, a state representative, a labor leader, a former NBA star, and a voice professor.
“We acknowledge the great achievements and contributions of African Americans every day, not only during the month of February,” Frerichs said. “These leaders are investing in companies, making a difference in the lives of our youth, and fighting for a more equitable Illinois. We celebrate their dedication to making our communities a better place to live, work, and raise a family.”
Black History Month is a national effort. In 1926, University of Chicago graduate, author and educator Carter G. Woodson created Negro History Week. In 1976, the annual celebration was expanded to a month. This year’s Black History Month theme is “African Americans and the Arts.”
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