ROCKVILLE, Md., Sep. 2, 2022—The Montgomery County Council will hold its second annual African Heritage Month commemoration hosted by Councilmembers Will Jawando and Craig Rice and Council President Gabe Albornoz on Tuesday, Sept. 13 at 11:30 a.m. The theme of this year’s commemoration, which includes a video segment, is the African influence in Montgomery County and the U.S. The celebration will also showcase African art, dance, food, music and traditional attire.  

“Montgomery County’s strength is truly derived from its diversity. For centuries, the African diaspora has significantly contributed to our economic, cultural and social fabric and positively influenced many civilizations around the world. I am proud that Montgomery County is celebrating African Heritage Month for the second year in a row, and most importantly that the Council will host our celebration in person for the very first time,” said Council President Albornoz. “It is through hard work, perseverance and determination that the African community sustains our County and fortifies our collective vision to achieve prosperity for all.”     

“Fourteen years ago, Montgomery County became the first in the nation to proclaim the month of September as African Heritage Month,” said Councilmember Jawando. “As the son of a Nigerian father, this celebration is important to me as we continue to honor the diverse cultures within the African diaspora and their contributions to our county and nation.  This year, we will recognize African leaders from five different countries, celebrating their achievements in the fields of music, dance, art, culinary arts and designing traditional African attire. Montgomery County is home to more than 54,000 Africans, who make up 15 percent of the overall immigrant population.  African Heritage Month is an opportunity to recognize one of our biggest strengths in Montgomery County, our rich diversity.”  

“As the Chair of the Education and Culture Committee, I am proud to represent a County that features vibrant and varied cultures,” said Councilmember Rice. “Three years ago, I led a delegation to Gondar, Ethiopia, our African Sister City.  It was an opportunity to strengthen ties with our Ethiopian residents, the largest African immigrant group in the region.  As we celebrate African Heritage Month, our county must remain committed to welcoming residents from every corner of the globe, respecting the traditions that have carried forward through centuries. As a great-grandson of slaves, I am particularly aware of the importance of not losing our history and the cultures that shaped us. Recognizing and celebrating the people and cultures that came to us from Africa help us solidify being a diverse, inclusive and supportive community.” 

The commemoration will be held in person at the Montgomery County Council Office Building at 100 Maryland Ave, Rockville, MD 20850. It will also be streaming live on the Council’s Facebook page, YouTube channel and Council website. Residents also will be able to watch live on television on Comcast/RCN channels 996/1056 and Verizon channel 30.

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