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PROCLAMATION 3
OF THE PORT OF SEATTLE COMMISSION 4
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WHEREAS, Black history is American history, and for over a century, Black Americans have 6
led the fight for equity, justice, and opportunity, reshaping our culture, laws, and 7
democracy in ways that continue to resonate today; and 8
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WHEREAS, the Port of Seattle is committed to racial equity and confronting anti-Black racism 10
by embedding inclusion, belonging, and fairness across its operations and 11
leadership, reflecting our diverse communities, creating an equitable culture, and 12
ensuring that opportunities expand economic and social well-being for all; and 13
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WHEREAS, 2026 marks a century of national Black history commemorations, honoring the 15
vision and leadership of Dr. Carter G. Woodson and the founders of the Association 16
for the Study of Negro Life and History, whose work institutionalized the study, 17
celebration, and preservation of Black history and affirmed the countless 18
contributions of Black Americans to the cultural, economic, political, and social 19
foundations of this nation; and 20
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WHEREAS, from that vision and leadership, the roots of Black History Week grew to Black 22
History Month, and these observances have transformed how Black Americans 23
view themselves, how the world recognizes their contributions, and emphasizes the 24
enduring power of remembrance, education, and celebration; and 25
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WHEREAS, the Port of Seattle honors the historic and ongoing contributions of Black leaders, 27
Black employees, and all Black Americans to the economic, cultural, and social life 28
of King County and beyond, including through leadership at the Port, participation 29
in Employee Resource Groups, engagement with the Change Team, involvement 30
with Blacks In Government, and the everyday actions of our Port family advancing 31
justice and equity; and 32
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WHEREAS, Blacks In Government is part of a national non-profit organization that celebrated 34
its 50th anniversary last year. We are an inclusive organization and invite everyone 35
to share our purpose, and join in our mission, as we work toward achieving our 36
vision; and 37
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Item Number: 4a_proclamation
Meeting Date: February 10,2026
WHEREAS, Blacks In Government’s purpose is to advance equity and empowerment for Black 42
public servants by fostering a community where learning and leadership strengthen 43
both individual potential and collective progress. Our mission is to create avenues 44
for educational opportunities, career advancement, and to provide a mechanism for 45
inclusion, growth, and advocacy. Our vision is a mosaic that embodies the belief 46
that all people, regardless of race, color, gender, gender identity, religion, or 47
citizenship status, can embrace who they are, define their future, and change the 48
world; and 49
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WHEREAS, at a time when the current federal administration is actively attempting to erase 51
Black history, restrict truthful education, and dismantle hard-won civil rights gains, 52
the Port of Seattle unequivocally acknowledges that Black Americans—many of 53
whom were forced to build this nation through enslavement, exploitation, and 54
systemic dehumanization—have shaped every aspect of the United States, and we 55
reject any effort to deny, distort, or diminish that reality; and 56
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WHEREAS, the Port of Seattle Commission continues to elevate and honor the contributions of 58
Black Americans through sustained institutional commitment, inclusive policies, 59
education, and recognition, ensuring that Black history is preserved, celebrated, and 60
carried forward as an essential and living part of our shared civic and cultural story. 61
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NOW, THEREFORE, the Port of Seattle Commission proclaims February 2026 as Black 63
History Month, honoring the legacy of those who paved the way, those advancing equity today, 64
and all members of the Port family committed to justice, inclusion, and Black excellence. 65
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Proclaimed by the Port of Seattle Commission on this 10
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day of February 2026. 67
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Port of Seattle Commission 70
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Port of Seattle Commission 76
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