Mayor Garcetti Kicks Off Celebration Of African American Heritage Month
Mayor Eric Garcetti kicked off the annual celebration of African American Heritage Month, with ceremonies at City Hall to recognize and honor the contributions of black history-makers and organizations.
The 2016 African American Heritage Month kickoff opened with a ceremony inside City Council Chambers with City Council President Herb J. Wesson, Jr. and the Los Angeles City Council, City Controller Ron Galperin, the Department of Cultural Affairs, Our Authors Study Club, and the 2016 African American Heritage Month Committee.
“Black history is central to everyone’s history: Humanity itself rose from the continent of Africa. People of African descent were integral to the building of civilization, the founding of our nation, and the establishment of this city,” said Mayor Garcetti. “I am grateful for all of the passion that our City Council leaders have put into making African American Heritage Month special for all Angelenos. It gives our entire city an opportunity to reflect more deeply on these achievements, share the history with our children, and celebrate together in a spirit of unity, respect, and understanding.”
At the opening ceremony, Mayor Garcetti presented the Living Legend Award to Lionel Richie — a singer, songwriter, musician, producer, and philanthropist who has sold more than 100 million albums worldwide and earned an Academy Award, a Golden Globe, and four Grammys. Three other leaders were presented with Hall of Fame Awards for Law, Education, and Government, respectively: the Honorable Audrey Collins, Associate Justice, California Court of Appeals; Dr. Willie J. Hagan, President of California State University, Dominguez Hills; and Jerome E. Horton, Chairman of the California State Board of Equalization.
