The Los Angeles Unified School District unanimously approved a resolution on Jan. 27 celebrating February as National Black History Month and recognizing the central role of African Americans throughout U.S. history.

Board Member Sherlett Hendy Newbill authored the resolution, which was co-sponsored by the rest of the board.

“For a century, Black History commemorations have preserved, elevated and honored Black life, culture and achievement,” Newbill said. “From the Harlem Renaissance to the Civil Rights Movement, from the Voting Rights Act of 1965 to today’s advancements in science, technology, government and the arts, Black Americans have shaped every aspect of our nation’s progress.”

“Los Angeles Unified is set apart by its continued commitment to honoring the profound historical, cultural, social, political and economic impact of African American communities,” Superintendent Alberto Carvalho said. “We remain dedicated to advancing culturally responsive instruction and student experiences that celebrate Black student achievement, not only in February, but throughout the entire year.”

“Black history is American History and integrating it into the curriculum is not just right but necessary to observe all viewpoints of who we are as a country,” LAUSD Board President Scott Schmerelson said. “While we are living in a time that is seemingly ignoring the progress made during the Civil Rights Era, the demonization of the abolitionists and a resurgence of Confederate era ideology, LAUSD will never tire of an accurate portrayal of American history. This is not to tear down or condemn America itself. It is to elevate the people, all people, within it.”

“Black history is American history, and it belongs in our classrooms, textbooks and lessons,” Board Member Nick Melvoin said. “Especially as we see alarming attempts to erase critical components of our country’s history, we wholeheartedly reaffirm the district’s commitment to honor the legacy, contributions, hardships and triumphs of Black Americans.”

For information, visit lausd.org.