Page 46 - BHM Program 2021

It’s hard to deny the significant contributions that African
Americans have made in defining the vibrant cultural

legacy of Columbus. Columbus is abundant with history,
including Black History.

It is imperative that we acknowledge the many
contributions that were made by African Americans in our

city, including the cultural landscape that was built.
Neighborhoods like Bronzeville and Long Street are

testaments to the richness of African American culture.

We cannot let our history be forgotten.

The Black experience in America remains front and

center whether in our community, our streets or in our
homes. That’s why we must pause not only in February,

but every day to recognize the tremendous sacrifices

Black folks have made.

We can’t, however, only recognize national figures who
paved this path but we must also pay homage to local

leaders like James Preston Poindexter, Joyce and Otto

Beatty, former Mayor Michael B. Coleman, Aminah
Robinson, Ben Espy, Jerry Hammond and Charles Booth,

to name a few.

Now, more than ever, we must uplift, love, and respect

one another. We must focus on using our collective voice
to strive for equity and equality. It is imperative that we

support one another as we continue to shine a beacon of

light on our values and vision for the future – life, liberty,
and justice.

Shannon Hardin
President,

Columbus City Council 46