2025-2312Resolution No. 2025-2312
A resolution proclaiming February 2025 as “Black History Month”
in the City of Janesville.
WHEREAS, Americans have recognized Black history annually since 1926; and
WHEREAS, the Nation is commemorating the 61st anniversary of the 1964 Civil Rights
Act, which drew from many Black Americans taking a positive stance on breaking down
the barriers to racial equality; and
WHEREAS, Black Americans in Wisconsin have made and continue to make outstanding contributions to communities, and it is important to recognize the work of these leaders;
and
WHEREAS, for instance, Ezekiel Gillespie, born in Tennessee as a slave, purchased his freedom to go north, operated a local branch of the Underground Railroad, helping hundreds of African Americans escape slavery, and helped open Wisconsin’s first black
church; and
WHEREAS, Ezekiel Gillespie also led the charge for Black suffrage when, in 1865, he attempted to vote and was denied a ballot, and later sued for his right to vote in Gillespie v. Palmer, which led to the Wisconsin Supreme Court enforcing the 1849 referendum in
favor of Black male suffrage; and
WHEREAS, the City of Janesville recognizes the extensive civil, social, and religious contributions made by Black Americans, including many residents of the City of Janesville; and
WHEREAS, the City of Janesville further recognizes the vital importance of allowing all residents of this City to study and understand Black history, both nationally and with respect to the City.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE COMMON COUNCIL of the City of
Janesville recognizes February 2025 as “Black History Month” in the City of Janesville to encourage the residents of this City to become more knowledgeable about the numerous historically significant contributions made by Black Americans.
ADOPTED:
APPROVED:
Kevin M. Lahner, City Manager
ATTEST:
Lorena Rae Stottler, City Clerk-Treasurer
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Wald Klimczyk, City Attorney
Proposed by: City Council President
Prepared by: City Manager’s Office
Motion by:
Second by:
Councilmember Aye Nay Pass Absent
Burdick
Jackson
Marshick
Miller
Neeno
Squire
Williams
February 10, 2025
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Squire
Williams
Resolution 2025-2312 Black History Month
Final Audit Report 2025-02-18
Created:2025-02-18
By:Elizabeth Lopez (lopeze@janesvillewi.gov)
Status:Signed
Transaction ID:CBJCHBCAABAAEmUhINaO_tFa8jLoRXlSqnjg7ZsYDHsS
"Resolution 2025-2312 Black History Month" History
Document created by Elizabeth Lopez (lopeze@janesvillewi.gov)
2025-02-18 - 4:20:44 PM GMT
Document emailed to Kevin Lahner (lahnerk@janesvillewi.gov) for signature
2025-02-18 - 4:20:48 PM GMT
Document emailed to Lorena Stottler (stottlerl@janesvillewi.gov) for signature
2025-02-18 - 4:20:48 PM GMT
Email viewed by Kevin Lahner (lahnerk@janesvillewi.gov)
2025-02-18 - 4:57:36 PM GMT
Document e-signed by Kevin Lahner (lahnerk@janesvillewi.gov)
Signature Date: 2025-02-18 - 4:57:45 PM GMT - Time Source: server
Email viewed by Lorena Stottler (stottlerl@janesvillewi.gov)
2025-02-18 - 8:27:05 PM GMT
Document e-signed by Lorena Stottler (stottlerl@janesvillewi.gov)
Signature Date: 2025-02-18 - 8:27:15 PM GMT - Time Source: server
Agreement completed.
2025-02-18 - 8:27:15 PM GMT