Thursday, February 21, 2008
State of Iowa Celebrates Black History Month
6th Executive Order to Establish Green Government Initiative
Diversity of Governor Culver’s Board and Commission appointees nearing 15%
(Des Moines) On Thursday, February 21, 2008, Governor Chet Culver, Lt. Governor Patty Judge and Iowa’s African American Legislators led the state’s Black History Month Celebration in the House Chamber of the State Capitol. Governor Culver gave opening remarks and reiterated the Culver-Judge Administration’s commitment to diversity.
During his remarks, Governor Culver said, “I have worked to ensure that my entire administration reflects the skills, ideas, and talents of all Iowans. I am proud of the fact that of all appointments I have made to Iowa’s Boards and Commissions, nearly 15% are members of minority communities.”
Lt. Governor Patty Judge read a proclamation, proclaiming the month of February, as Black History Month in Iowa.
“We are honored to take part in this wonderful celebration,” said Lt. Governor Judge. “Governor Culver and I are proud of the contributions of so many African Americans throughout history here in Iowa. The fabric of our state is deeper and richer because of the ongoing commitment to civil rights by many Iowans of diverse backgrounds.”
Governor Culver presented Lolo Jones with a certificate of recognition for her accomplishments in track and field. Jones, a Des Moines native and Des Moines Roosevelt Alumna, is currently the fastest American woman and 2nd fastest woman in the world in the 60 meter hurdles. She was recently named “Athlete of the Week” by the USA Track and Field Association. Jones was introduced by Dr. Thomas Hill, Vice President of Student Affairs at Iowa State University. Dr. Hill received a bronze medal at the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich, Germany. Dr. Hill was also a hurdler and received a certificate of recognition from the state of Iowa as well.
The program also included African American musical and theatrical performances. Abraham Sommerville and Lenola Allen-Sommerville portrayed Fredrick Douglass and Sojourner Truth. The Restoration Prayze choir performed as did the Langston Hughes Players. The Isiserettes performed for legislators and guests in the House Chamber.
Four legislators, Representative Wayne Ford, Representative Deborah Berry, Representative Helen Miller and Representative Ako Abdul-Samad, gave awards to African Americans making a difference in the state of Iowa. Members of predominately African-American Greek-Lettered organizations were recognized for their contributions and work in the community. Members of Delta Sigma Theta, Zeta Phi Beta, and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sororities, Incorporated were in attendance, as were members of Omega Psi Phi, Kappa Alpha Psi and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternities, Incorporated. Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated was also acknowledged.
In addition to the program, there were displays in the Rotunda from the African American Museum and Cultural Center in Cedar Rapids, the State Historical Building, and Ft. Des Moines Museum and Education Center. Information on Blacks in Government, Boards and Commissions, the One Iowa Award, Ongoing Covenant with Black Iowa, and Abraham Lincoln were also on display.