Emeryville proclaims February 2025 Black History Month; council members call for policy follow-through

The Emeryville City Council read a proclamation declaring February 2025 as Black History Month and discussed making the city’s language and policies reflect more substantive support for equity.

Mayor Mora read the proclamation, which memorialized the history of Black Americans and said the city has raised the Pan-African flag at City Hall in February since 2022. "The city of Emeryville has committed itself to racially just policies and practices that create opportunities for all people to thrive," the proclamation says.

Council member Welch, who identified herself as a Black woman, said Black history is American history and described local historical contributions. "We have such a rich Black history here with leaders, artists, activists," Welch said, and added that the city should reaffirm its commitment to equity and inclusion in the present and future.

Council member Preyforce said the proclamation language appeared to be a carryover from prior years and suggested updating the resolution to reflect current priorities and to ensure ceremonial recognition is supported by policies that change outcomes for Black residents. "If our policies aren't actually helpful and supportive, and actually lift the life outcomes of what Black History Month represents, then we're just following a trend of white supremacy, that says one thing and does another," Preyforce said.

No formal vote on the proclamation was recorded in the transcript; the proclamation was read during the meeting and council members made remarks in support and offered suggestions for future draft language and policy follow-up. Council members discussed referring topics to committees for more substantive policy work during other parts of the meeting.