Reverend Kevin Smith leads Black History Month celebration honoring justice and equality

As the evening sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over Gloucester County's city hall, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation. The Gloucester County Board of Supervisors gathered for their meeting on February 4, 2025, a moment marked by both reflection and hope. The meeting commenced with a heartfelt invocation from Reverend Dr. Katrina Brown, who drew inspiration from the powerful words of African American poet James Weldon Johnson.

In her prayer, Dr. Brown emphasized the importance of justice, equality, and the ongoing struggle for civil rights, reminding the board members of their duty to lead with wisdom and drive progress for their community. “We look to you with hope that your actions lead us forward in the pursuit of a better county, a better state, and indeed a better nation,” she urged, resonating with the spirit of Black History Month. This year, the meeting held special significance as it was led for the first time by an African American, Reverend Kevin Smith, marking a historic moment for the board.

Following the invocation, the meeting transitioned smoothly into the Pledge of Allegiance, led by young Laura Deal, who stood proudly before the assembly. Her enthusiasm and spirit added a touch of innocence and hope to the proceedings, reminding everyone present of the values they were there to uphold: liberty and justice for all.

As the meeting unfolded, the board members were reminded of their roles as elected representatives, tasked with the responsibility of guiding their community toward a brighter future. The evening was not just about governance; it was a celebration of progress, unity, and the shared vision of a community striving for equality and justice. With the echoes of Dr. Brown's prayer still resonating in the air, the board prepared to tackle the issues at hand, embodying the hope and determination that filled the room.