Mill Valley declares February 2025 Black History Month; Old Mill students present bake sale donation

The Mill Valley City Council read a proclamation declaring February 2025 as Black History Month in Mill Valley and invited community members to present the proclamation aloud.

Tammy Herndon of city staff introduced the proclamation, which the mayor read in full and which recalled the history of Black History Month beginning with Carter G. Woodson’s 1926 observance and its expansion to a month in 1976. The proclamation also acknowledged historical exclusionary practices in the region — including redlining and restrictive covenants in the mid‑20th century — and committed the city to working with local agencies and community‑based organizations to promote awareness, education and inclusion.

Several community members and local organizations participated in the presentation. Felicia Gaston and representatives from the Marin City Historical and Preservation Society presented copies of the Mill Valley Historical Society review (2021) and other materials; the society also offered copies of its publications and a city lapel pin to council members.

Earlier in the meeting, student representatives from Old Mill School’s student council described a bake sale they held at The Depot on Monday, Jan. 27, to raise funds to help people affected by recent wildfires in Los Angeles. Student council publicity director Hannah Hayes and green team captain Ben said students researched relief organizations and selected the American Red Cross as the beneficiary. The students said more than 50 Old Mill families donated baked goods on short notice and that the bake sale raised $979.50. The students presented cookies and invited the council to receive them.

Ending: The council accepted the presentation and proclamation. Staff encouraged residents to consult the city website for a calendar of Black History Month events and programs at local libraries and schools.