For Immediate Release January 25, 2022
Contact: Patrice Marshall McKenzie (213) 259-9763
School Board Approves Recognition of National Black History Month
This Year’s Theme Highlights the Importance of Black Health and Wellness
The Los Angeles Unified School Board, today, unanimously approved recognizing February as National Black History Month, and celebrating the central role of African Americans throughout U.S. history. Board Member Dr. George J. McKenna III authored the resolution, which was co-sponsored by the rest of the board.
“Black doctors, scientists, scholars, researchers and other medical professionals have improved the health of millions regardless of race,” Board Member McKenna, who is African American, said about this year’s health and wellness theme. “Thank you Dr. Charles Drew who pioneered the blood preservation methods that have allowed blood donations, banks and transfers, and to so many others who have made major contributions.”
“Los Angeles Unified serves students from many diverse backgrounds, and it’s critical that the lessons in our classrooms reflect the diversity of Los Angeles and the rest of the country,” Interim Superintendent Megan K. Reilly said. “Thanks to Dr. McKenna’s resolution, Los Angeles Unified will have a framework in which to further enrich our programs to celebrate and recognize Black Americans’ contributions and history during Black History Month.”
Today’s resolution also directs the Superintendent to work with “educators, librarians, all the schools of the District, and our wider community to recognize and celebrate this month with culturally relevant and appropriate curriculum, programs, ceremonies, and activities that generate in-depth discussion of the complex factual history of the United States and the legacy of Black Americans.”
“Our students benefit so much when they see themselves celebrated and represented in their curriculum,” Board President Kelly Gonez said. “I’m so proud to be part of a district that celebrates the history and culture of our Black students, and hope that teachers, families, and students continue to explore Black History now and throughout the year.”
“We look forward to celebrating February as Black History Month – and as we highlight the important, rich, and complex history of Black Americans, we also recognize that there is still work to do year-round to ensure that our Black students have the support they need to succeed in school and beyond,” Board Vice President Nick Melvoin said.
“We have much to learn about struggle, resistance and resilience from African Americans and their contributions to our society,” Board Member Mónica García said. “Today when race and class impacts access to housing, healthcare, economic wellness and educational justice, we must learn from our past and build on the efforts that increase access, equity and justice in our communities.”
“Now, more than ever, it is critical that our educators, and individuals of conscience and good will, educate themselves and others about the history of Black Americans, and that this knowledge and understanding includes the sacrifices and often overlooked contributions over centuries that Black Americans have made to the progress of our nation,” Board Member Scott M. Schmerelson said. “Our children deserve to learn from our past and to reject the ignorance and racism that still plagues our country and prevents a future that is built on truth and appreciation for the legacy of Black Americans, especially that of historical medical scholars and practitioners, and today’s medical professionals and other essential workers who have saved countless lives serving on the front lines against the ongoing pandemic.”
“Black History Month is an opportunity for our students and faculty to be united in celebration, to learn, and get inspired by the achievements and contributions made by African Americans in the U.S. and by Black people around the world,” Board Member Jackie Goldberg said. “Every year I look forward to the creative ways Black history is commemorated and honored in Los Angeles Unified classrooms. Our job is to teach and inspire the next generation of leaders using every part of history.”
“From the historic Black Student Achievement Plan to Local District South’s Validated Plan, I’m proud to serve in a district that celebrates Black History Month all year long by supporting, affirming, and honoring our Black scholars,” Board Member Tanya Ortiz Franklin said. “I’m excited to be part of the conversations, partnerships and accomplishments that will transpire because of this year’s Black History Month theme of ‘Black Health and Wellness,’ and I invite everyone to join the movement with us today, tomorrow and always.”