2019-1617 Resolution No. 2019-1617
A resolution proclaiming February 2019 as "African American History Month" in the City
of Janesville.
WHEREAS, Americans have recognized African American history annually since 1926, first as
"Negro History Week" and later as "African American History Month"; and
WHEREAS, we are commemorating the 55th 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; 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 African American 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
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 the opportunity to study and understand African American history, both
nationally and with respect to this City.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE COMMON COUNCIL of the City of
Janesville recognizes February 2019 as "African American 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 11, 2019 Motion by: Williams
Second by: Marklein
APPROVE : Councilmember Aye Nay Pass Absent
Conley X
AVIL
Farrell X
Gruber X
Mark Freitag, City Manager Jorgensen X
Marklein X
ATT /4/ Williams X
Wolfe X
David T. Godek, City Clerk-Treasurer
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Wald Klimczyk, City Attorney
Proposed by: Council President Marklein
Prepared by: City Manager's Office