By Dukes                                         H.R. No. 103

      75R4496 WMS-D                           

                                 R E S O L U T I O N

 1-1           WHEREAS, The month of February traditionally has been

 1-2     observed as African American Heritage Month; and

 1-3           WHEREAS, Each year since 1926, when observance of African

 1-4     American Heritage Month was inaugurated, February has been

 1-5     dedicated to celebrating and fostering an appreciation of African

 1-6     Americans' unique and significant contributions to our society and

 1-7     nation; and

 1-8           WHEREAS, This month's special designation also provides an

 1-9     opportunity for community and civic organizations to increase

1-10     public awareness of the many notable accomplishments of African

1-11     Americans; and

1-12           WHEREAS, The theme for 1997's 72nd national celebration of

1-13     African American Heritage Month is "African Americans and Civil

1-14     Rights: A Reappraisal," and broad-based support is being marshalled

1-15     in communities nationwide; and

1-16           WHEREAS, Combining a justifiable pride in the achievements of

1-17     their past with an unquenchable desire to provide for a brighter

1-18     future, African Americans strive to attain the American dream while

1-19     preserving and cherishing their unique culture, and it is indeed

1-20     fitting that they be given special recognition for their laudable

1-21     efforts in this regard; now, therefore, be it

1-22           RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 75th Texas

1-23     Legislature hereby acknowledge the outstanding accomplishments of

1-24     all African Americans and recognize February 1997 as African

 2-1     American Heritage Month.