For Immediate Release: Friday, September 1, 2023
On Tuesday, Sept. 12 at 11:30 a.m., special celebration will highlight individuals that use their diverse professions to showcase the African culture, tradition and history
The Montgomery County Council will hold its third annual African Heritage Month commemoration hosted by Councilmembers Will Jawando, Laurie-Anne Sayles, and Council President Evan Glass on Tuesday, Sept. 12 at 11:30 a.m. The theme of this year’s event will focus on Celebrating African Changemakers who are redefining Culture and Community.
"This year the Council continues its tradition of commemorating African Heritage Month, honoring the many cultures within the African diaspora and recognizing their contributions locally and globally," Council President Glass said. "I'm proud to serve on the most diverse Council in our County's history, where we value and celebrate the rich diversity that makes Montgomery County so unique."
“The African diaspora is an integral part of the history and foundation of Maryland and Montgomery County. As the son of an African immigrant and a lifelong Montgomery County resident, celebrating African Heritage Month is a special opportunity to reflect on my ancestors and community,” Councilmember Jawando said. “Everyday African residents in our County are making significant contributions in the fields of art, science, education, and healthcare, among others. I am honored to help celebrate African changemakers who continue to make our county a vibrant community.”
“The America that we know today is rooted in African ancestry, culture, customs, and traditions. For this year’s theme, I would like to pay tribute to some of the great African changemakers of our time: leaders such as Nelson Mandela, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, Nnamdi Azikiwe, and Wangari Maathai,” Councilmember Sayles said. “Their leadership exemplifies the beauty, significance, and grace of African culture and how much it contributes to our society today.”
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 Verizon channel 30.
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Release ID: 23-276