Celebrating Black History Month

Black History Month is a time to reflect and reminisce upon the sacrifices and hard work of those individuals who helped advocate for and build a better and more tolerant life, both present and future, for all of us.

As we acknowledge the many AfricanAmerican men and women who have helped the United States grow culturally, countless civil rights pioneers in Florida have been equally as important and should be revered as agents of change.

Since 2012, the Florida Civil Rights Hall of Fame, administered by the Florida Commission on Human Relations, has honored Floridians who made great sacrifices and helped foster equality for all in our state. Pioneering educator Mary McLeod Bethune, civil rights leaders C.K. Steele and Harry T. and Harriette Moore, are among the many who have been recognized for their unyielding commitment to equality, diversity and human dignity.

Last year, Gov. Rick Scott selected a new class of inductees for the 2017 Hall of Fame: Dr. Marvin Davies, John Dorsey Due and Dr. Rev. Willie Oliver Wells. Each were chosen for their commitment to advocating for equality and justice throughout Florida.

Black History Month gives all of us the opportunity to recognize and shine a light on the many ways African-Americans have enriched Florida's communities, culture and history.

Latanya Peterson, Vice Chair of the Florida Commission on Human Relations