Black History program draws community members to sportsplex

JACKSON, Tenn. — During Black History Month, we honor leaders who consistently dedicate themselves to uplifting and supporting their communities.

Through their tireless efforts, they preserve the legacy of those who came before and pave the way for future generations to thrive.

Venodea Reaaves, President of AARP, hosted a Black History event this morning at the TR White Sportsplex.

The event’s speaker was a retired Master Sergeant in the U.S. Air Force.

This event also included a soloist, multi tabled history, and poetry.

“Everyone needs to really know about Black history, because we have so many individuals who have contributed, not just to Black history, but American history at large,” Reaaves said.

In 1976, Americans celebrated the country’s first Black History Month with a message honoring the month from President Gerald Ford.

But the monthlong celebration has roots stemming back to 1926, when Carter G. Woodson, a Black historian, author and publisher, created a weeklong celebration in mid-February.

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