Honoring Black History Month in Lake County
Lake County Board of Supervisors Passes and Adopts Proclamation
The Lake County Board of Supervisors passed and adopted the proclamation recognizing February as Black History Month, honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday and celebrating African Americans’ contributions to Lake County.
On February 4, 2025, Board Chair and District 3 Supervisor Eddie Crandell began the Board meeting with the Proclamation of February 2025 as Black History Month in Lake County. The annual Proclamation also celebrated Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday.
District 2 Supervisor, Bruno Sabatier, read from the Proclamation:
“The NAACP has been at the forefront protecting our democracy from assault, workplace prejudice and hostility and urging the passage of the John Lewis Rights Advancement Act to ensure the protection of civil rights of the U.S. Constitution…The local branch, as other branches of the NAACP across the country, work diligently on social programs to eliminate hatred, bigotry and poverty, and has been led by Rick Mayo, president and 1982 founder of the Lake County branch.”
Supervisor Sabatier ended, “the NAACP branch is commended on the vital role it has played in improving the quality of life in our local community, and we extend the branch our best wishes and continued success.”
Supervisor Sabatier presented the proclamation to Mayo, who expressed his gratitude:
“I give thanks to God and give thanks to the Board for their continued support and dedication to the African American community and the people of color in Lake County, as you have continued to do for many years. It is always a pleasure to come and receive [your support]. Lake County is a county of immigrants. We’re all looking out for each other, and you are always reaching out to give us a hand. That is greatly appreciated, so thank you very much.”
Each supervisor took time to recognize the importance of the Proclamation and of Black History Month. District 4 Supervisor Brad Rasmussen thanked Mayo for his leadership and activism, sharing, “I’ve known Rick since the 1990s, and he has always been caring in our community.” District 1 Supervisor Helen Owen added, “I met Rick while campaigning, and he welcomed me to participate in a toy drive for our veterans. Thank you for accepting me into your life.”
District 5 Supervisor Jessica Pyska added, “This Proclamation is a promise to ourselves and shows how deeply we care about diversity and our commitment to our constituents. I always appreciate seeing you.” Board Chair Crandell acknowledged, “I am happy we conducted this Proclamation, especially as national events unfold that worry our communities. Thank you, Rick, for representing the NAACP.” Supervisor Sabatier encouraged everyone to learn more about Black History Month and leaders such as Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. Du Bois, who fought for equality.
To watch the proclamation, click here.
To read the proclamation, click here.
The Board of Supervisors celebrates the rich diversity of Lake County’s communities, and is committed to promoting the well-being and economic resiliency of ALL residents, in consistency with the public’s “Vision 2028” priorities.