LOS ANGELES - The City Council and Mayor Eric Garcetti kicked off LA's celebration of African American Heritage Month in City Hall by honoring leaders for their service to the community and as trailblazers in the city. Four-time Grammy-winning artist Lionel Richie was recognized with the Living Legend Award for his extensive role in shaping the music industry. Additionally, the Honorable Audrey Collins, Associate Justice of the 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 were presented with Hall of Fame Awards for law, education and government, respectively.
In honor of African American Heritage Month, the Department of Cultural Affairs unveiled a special calendar and cultural guide. The guide is a comprehensive list of special events happening across LA that showcase the contributions, achievements, history and legacy of African Americans. It also features artwork by emerging and established African American artists. The guide is available online at www.culturela.org and at www.laheritagemonth.org.
Since 1950, when Los Angeles Mayor Fletcher Bowron issued the first citywide proclamation honoring and recognizing the contributions of African Americans, residents throughout the city have celebrated African American Heritage Month. These celebrations create awareness about the struggles and triumphs of African Americans in education, science, the arts, civics, sports and other fields.
Posted on 02/08/2016