1-1                          SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 117
 1-2           WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas takes pride in
 1-3     joining citizens throughout the country in recognizing
 1-4     February of 1999 as Black History Month; and
 1-5           WHEREAS, Carter Godwin Woodson, now known as the Father
 1-6     of Black History, originally designated a week in February
 1-7     of 1926 as Negro History Week; Carter Woodson was the son of
 1-8     former slaves and grew up in an indigent setting; a remarkable
 1-9     individual, he earned a college degree later in life and a
1-10     doctorate in history from Harvard University; he became a
1-11     successful educator and the author of several publications
1-12     and books; and
1-13           WHEREAS, Mr. Woodson's designated week of celebration was
1-14     later promoted by the Association for the Study of Afro-American
1-15     Life and History, which supported changing what had become known
1-16     as Black History Week into a monthlong event; its observance was
1-17     officially expanded when President Jimmy Carter proclaimed
1-18     February as Black History Month in 1976; and
1-19           WHEREAS, It is appropriate that our nation pay tribute to the
1-20     men and women who have strengthened our country through their many
1-21     achievements and their heritage; and
1-22           WHEREAS, The outstanding accomplishments of individuals from
1-23     black cultures are legendary throughout our history, and they have
1-24     contributed in countless ways to our country's enrichment; and
 2-1           WHEREAS, Black History Month provides American citizens an
 2-2     opportunity to express appreciation to the black men and women who
 2-3     have made innumerable contributions to our society, and to the many
 2-4     talented black leaders, such as Martin Luther King, Jr., who have
 2-5     inspired Americans to reaffirm their commitment to equal justice
 2-6     and opportunity for all; now, therefore, be it
 2-7           RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas,
 2-8     76th Legislature, hereby commend the observance of Black History
 2-9     Month and encourage citizens across the state to celebrate this
2-10     nation's African-American heritage; and, be it further
2-11           RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared in honor
2-12     of Black History Month.
2-13                                                                    West
2-14                                  ______________________________________
2-15                                          President of the Senate
2-16                                       I hereby certify that the above
2-17                                  Resolution was adopted by the Senate
2-18                                  on February 1, 1999.
2-19                                  ______________________________________
2-20                                          Secretary of the Senate
2-21                                  ______________________________________
2-22                                           Member, Texas Senate