From slavery abolitionists like Harriett Tubman to civil rights activists like Rosa Parks, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Coretta Scott King, from the courage of the Little Rock Nine Central High School students to the entrepreneurial spirit of the Arkansas City native publishing mogul John H. Johnson, and the powerful writings of Maya Angelo – we have much to learn from the courage of these true American heroes.   The accomplishments made by these tremendous individuals have inspired many, and their work will be forever embedded in American culture.  

There are countless other citizens who have led quiet lives and still made lasting contributions to America’s greatness. We recognize and salute those who have made their mark by leaving America better off than when they first encountered her.

This month, I encourage you to seize the opportunity and learn more about historical black figures.  The African American community has given us some of our greatest writers, inventors, philosophers, musicians, and spiritual and community leaders throughout our history.  This February, we celebrate black history and its lasting influence on American culture.  Let us all be mindful that these achievements are not to be remembered for only one month each year, but rather celebrated throughout the year and for decades and generations to come.