Council Honors Columbus’ African American Legacy
[COLUMBUS – OH] African Americans have made significant
contributions in defining the vibrant cultural legacy of Columbus. On Friday,
February 15, 2019, Columbus City Council will recognize and honor the
achievements of African Americans in the Capital City during its inaugural
Black History Month Celebration.
“The Black History Month Celebration gives us the opportunity to
publicly highlight, celebrate and honor the work of African Americans in the
cultivation of our great City,” said Councilmember Priscilla Tyson. “I am proud
we are recognizing the contributions of African American trailblazers past and
present who helped make Columbus one of the best cities in America.”
This free event takes place Friday, February 15, 2019, in
Columbus City Council Chambers from 11am to 12-noon, doors open at 10:30 am and
all are welcome to attend. The inaugural celebration will highlight Black
culture, as well as honor several African American pillars in the City of
Columbus and their achievements in various sectors including:
- Queen
Brooks in the area of Arts & Entertainment;
- Lewis
R. Smoot, Sr. for his leadership in Business;
- Reverend
Leon L. Troy, Sr. as a Leader in the Faith Community;
- James
Preston Poindexter for his advocacy in Public Service; and
- Catherine
T. Willis in the area of Education.
Honorees will receive the Poindexter Award which is named in
recognition of James Preston Poindexter. Poindexter was a clergyman,
abolitionist, civil rights activist and political pioneer serving as the first
Black Columbus City Councilmember.
"Columbus' Black community has a rich and vibrant history,”
said Council President Shannon Hardin. “This is an opportunity to acknowledge
the people who helped create the City we live in today and to consider how we
continue to uplift every neighborhood."
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