The San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors proclaimed February 2023, as “Black History Month” in San Joaquin County, at their meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 28 in Stockton.

Black History Month grew out of the establishment, in 1926, of Negro History Week by civil rights advocate and historian Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of African American Life and History. County board Chairman Robert Rickman brought this local recognition forward for the Tuesday board session.

“San Joaquin County is proud to celebrate the many achievements and contributions made by African Americans and I encourage all citizens to unite in celebration of our diverse heritage and culture, and continue efforts to build a just, inclusive, and prosperous community for all,” Supervisor Rickman said.

The chairman also invited Geary C. McKoy, President of the Stockton/San Joaquin Valley Chapter of Tuskegee Airmen, to receive the proclamation.