February 28 – In celebration of Black History Month, Mayor Byron W. Brown today recognized members of our community for their achievements during the annual City Hall Black History Month program. This year’s award categories included: arts and culture, military and law enforcement, healthcare and community service.
“Every year we come together to celebrate and acknowledge the contributions of those who have made a positive impact in our city,” Mayor Brown said. “This year we are honoring individuals and organizations who have worked to create a city of opportunity for all people. Buffalo continues to grow as a city where our differences are embraced, and where we strive to help all residents succeed.”
Among those Mayor Brown honored today was Sheldon Gibbs, the eleven-year-old CEO and Founder of Classic Knot, a Buffalo-based tie business.
Harvard educated historian, Carter G. Woodson established Negro History week in 1926 to coincide with the birthdays of President Abraham Lincoln and Abolitionist Frederick Douglass. This was an effort to recognize the contributions of Black people in America. In 1976, under President Gerald R. Ford, Negro History Week evolved into Black History Month.
This year’s categories and honorees were:
1. Arts and Culture Award - Drea d’Nur
2. Community Service Award- NAACP
3. Education Award - Dr. Tonja M. Williams
4. Faith-based Award - Pastor Edward Jackson Jr.
5. Family Award - The Ansari Family
6. Healthcare Award - Dr. Kevin C. Wood
7. Military/Law Enforcement - Legislator Barbara Miller-Williams
8. Youth Award - Shelden Gibbs