2017-1391 File Resolution No. 2017-1391
A resolution proclaiming February 2017 as "Black History Month"in the City of
Janesville.
WHEREAS, Americans have recognized black history annually since 1926, first as "Negro
History Week" and later as "Black History Month"; and
WHEREAS, we are commemorating the 53rd anniversary of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, which
drew from many African Americans taking a positive stance on breaking down the barriers to
racial equality; and
WHEREAS, African Americans in Wisconsin have made and continue to make outstanding
contributions to our communities, and it is important to recognize the work of these leaders to
combat negative stereotypes; and
WHEREAS, Ezekiel Gillespie, born in Tennessee as a slave, purchased his freedom to go
north; Ezekiel sold groceries and operated a local branch of the Underground Railroad, helping
hundreds of African Americans escape slavery; and
WHEREAS, Ezekiel Gillespie tied faith to the African-American community; he helped open
Wisconsin's first black church; and
WHEREAS, Ezekiel Gillespie also led the charge for African-American suffrage when, in 1865,
Ezekiel attempted to vote and was denied a ballot, and Ezekiel went on to sue for his right to
vote in Gillespie v. Palmer, which led to the Wisconsin Supreme Court enforcing the 1849
referendum in favor of African-American male suffrage; and
WHEREAS, the City of Janesville recognizes the extensive civil, social and religious
contributions made by African Americans, including many residents of the City of Janesville; and
WHEREAS, the City of Janesville further recognizes the vital- importance of affording all
residents of this City, especially young persons, the opportunity to study and understand Black
History, both nationally and with respect to this City, for the purpose of insuring that our citizens,
are fully familiar with the entire history of human experience; and
WHEREAS, because incidents of racism still exist today, it is in the public interest to continue to
advocate for full inclusion and equality for individuals of color;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE COMMON COUNCIL of the City of
Janesville recognizes February 2017 as "Black History Month" in the City of Janesville for the
purpose of encouraging the residents of this City to become more knowledgeable about the
numerous historically important contributions made by African Americans.
ADOPTED: February 13, 2017 Motion by: Gruber
Second by: Deupree
APPROVED: Councilmember Aye Nay Pass Absent
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Deupree X
Gruber X
Mark . reitag, City Manager Jorgensen X
AlTT : r , Marklein X
,fit '�� ---."pr Tidwell X
/1'j0. Williams X
'avid T. Godek, City Clerk-Treasurer
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Wald Klimczyk, City Attorney
Proposed by: Council President Liebert ._ .
Prepared by: City Manager's Office = - .