CLEARLAKE, Calif. – Members of the local chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People accepted a proclamation Thursday from the Clearlake City Council designating February as “Black History Month” in the city.
Lake County NAACP Branch President Rick Mayo, who was accompanied by members of his board, thanked the council for the recognition and reminded the public of the NAACP's celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
“The history of civil rights in the United States is largely the story of free people of color and then African Americans to define and enumerate what rights pertain to citizens in civil society,” Mayo said. “It has been the history of enlisting political parties to recognize the need for our governments, state and federal, to codify and protect those rights. Thank you.”
Mayor Denise Loustalot recognized the Lake County branch for its dedication to the principle of fostering civic, economic and educational programs and social justice throughout the city of Clearlake.
The group also was honored for its dedication to encouraging reflections on the rich history and teaching of black Americans, and bearing witness to the progress, beauty and achievements they have made throughout the community.
Aqeela Bahkeit was among the board members present to accept the proclamation with the recommendation of a book, “The Negro Trail Blazer of California” by Delilah Beasley, which she said was rich with history.
Email Denise Rockenstein at
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