News from New York State Office of General Services

For more information contact: Brad Maione, 518-474-5987

Lieutenant Governor David A. Paterson and

OGS Announce Black History Month Events

ALBANY, NY (02/04/2008; 1520)(readMedia)-- Lieutenant Governor David A. Paterson and New York Office of General Services (OGS) Commissioner John C. Egan today announced the schedule for the state’s 13th Black History Month Celebration at the Empire State Plaza.

The schedule kicks off on Tuesday and features a diverse roster of performances, exhibitions and cultural events that highlight the significant contributions of African Americans and culture as part of the state’s observance of Black History Month each February.

Lieutenant Governor David A. Paterson said: "Black History Month is a time to reflect critically about how far we have come together and how much farther we have to go before full justice is achieved for people of color. We celebrate with pride not only the accomplishments of our African American leaders who fill the pages of history but also the witness and sacrifice of generations of men and women who gave so much for the sake of justice and whose names will never be known to us. Inspired by their example we now need to follow in their footsteps so that the dream of full equality becomes a reality now in this generation."

“During African American History Month, it is important that we celebrate and recognize the many accomplishments of African Americans in New York State and across the nation,” Commissioner Egan said.

The theme for Black History Month is “Changing the African American Image through Education.” This year’s theme acknowledges the contributions of African Americans in all aspects of American society and underscores the relationship between education and economic opportunity.

The official kick off of Black History Month will take place on February 5 as several state agencies come together to salute African Americans. The program will feature state agency representatives, musical performances and speakers.

As part of this year’s observance, there will be a special art exhibit titled “Heroes on Two Fronts: The Tuskegee Airmen.” The exhibit at the Vietnam Memorial Gallery in the Justice Building, Concourse level, opens on February 7.

The story of the Tuskegee airmen is one of men who made history by being the first African Americans to qualify as military pilots while facing down overwhelming prejudice and discrimination. Their fierce determination and struggle against racism helped desegregate the U.S. military and served as a milestone in the civil rights movement. This exhibition tells the story of how these courageous men fought for the right to fight and who fought for our country – they were heroes on two fronts. The exhibition will feature artifacts, photographs and a display that tells the story of these brave airmen.

Throughout the month of February there will be cultural performances, a cultural expo and special programs highlighting the contributions and culture of African Americans. All events are free and open to the public.

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Schedule of Events for Black History Month:

February 5 Event: New York State Interagency Partnership Opening Program Time: Noon – 1:00 p.m. Location: South Concourse Activities: Opening ceremonies for Black History Month Celebration with performances.

February 7 Event: Opening Ceremony: “Heroes on Two Fronts: The Tuskegee Airmen” Time: Noon – 1:00 p.m. Location: The Vietnam Memorial Gallery, Justice Building – Concourse Level Activities: Exhibit opens with youth and musical presentations, Tuskegee veterans are expected to attend.

February 20 and 21 Event: Expo: “The African American Legacy of Future Young Champions” Time: 10:00a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Location: South Concourse Activities: This two-day event cultural expo will showcase the talents of young people through song, dance, step and dramatic presentations.

February 27 Event: Performance “Gospel: The Heart and Soul of the African American Legacy” Time: Noon – 1:00 p.m. Location: South Concourse Activities: Concert featuring popular Gospel spirituals.

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