The first day of Black History Month is also National Freedom Day.
This day marks President Abraham Lincoln's approval of a joint resolution on Feb. 1, 1865, which established the 13th Amendment and abolished slavery.
As a former enslaved person, Major Richard Robert Wright Sr. pushed to establish a holiday honoring the event.
In 1948, President Harry Truman designated Feb. 1 as National Freedom Day - one year after Major Wright's death. This day, along with Negro History Week, paved the way for Black History Month.
The Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion encourages you to reflect on the freedoms we have and the ongoing fight for freedom that many in our country still face.
Take action by becoming an Equity Ambassador. You'll develop DEI strategies and skills to help ensure all employees, residents and visitors feel welcomed, included and equipped for success.