CONTACT: Matt Cruz, (574) 235-5849
FOR RELEASE: Wednesday, February 22, 2017
CITY HONORS LOCAL AFRICAN-AMERICANS THROUGH BILLBOARD TRIBUTES
In honor of Black History Month, the City of South Bend has released a series of billboards around the community intended to enrich residents’ understanding of local African Americans who have contributed to South Bend’s history and culture. “African American history is a deep part of South Bend’s story, and the leadership of great African Americans in South Bend deserves to be celebrated,” says Mayor Pete Buttigieg. “The billboards remind us of the importance of black history to our community.” The 15 African Americans leaders selected to be honored by the Black History Month Committee are Cheryl Ashe, Robert Batteast, Al Carothers, Shalon Christine Davis, Lonnie Douglas, James Harris, Linda Johnson, Dawn Jones, Kintae Lark, Aaron Lowery, Bishop Eddie L. Miller, Melvin Reed, Hedy Robinson, Charles Stafford and Cynthia Taylor. “We strived to recognize residents that shaped our city by making a significant difference here,” says Gladys Muhammad, associate director of South Bend Heritage. “It’s important to tell stories of a diverse South Bend not only during Black History Month, but all year round.”
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