Durham commissioners proclaim Black History Month, adopt resolution honoring 10th anniversary of Chapel Hill victims

At the Feb. 10, 2025 meeting the Durham County Board of Commissioners adopted a proclamation declaring February 2025 as Black History Month and a separate resolution honoring the lives and legacy of Diya Shadi Barakat, Youssir (Yasser) Mohammed Abu Salha and Razan (Rizan) Mohammed Abu Salha on the 10th anniversary of their deaths.

Commissioner Michelle Burton read the Black History Month proclamation on behalf of the board. Attorney Nisha Williams, who spoke after the proclamation, said, "Black history in America, in particular in Durham County, is vital to our understanding of this country and this county's complex past." Dr. Brent Lewis, representing the Office of Equitable Well-being, thanked commissioners for the proclamation.

Commissioner Wendy Jacobs highlighted local community events tied to the observance, including a Durham County Library series presented by the Stagville Descendants Council and sessions at regional libraries throughout February and March. She also noted a documentary screening and other community events honoring the three victims.

The board then adopted a resolution marking the tenth anniversary of the 2015 shooting that killed Diya Shadi Barakat, Youssir Mohammed Abu Salha and Razan Mohammed Abu Salha. The resolution memorialized the victims' community service and cited local charitable initiatives that continue their legacy, including the Dia, Yossair and Razan Memorial Fund, the R3 Winners Foundation and the Lighthouse Project. A commissioner noted community events and a food drive tied to remembrance activities, including a final collection day on Feb. 23 at the Lighthouse Project on Kildare Farm Road.

Both the Black History Month proclamation and the anniversary resolution were signed on behalf of the board by the chair and commissioners and were presented to representatives of the Office of Equitable Well-being and the Racial Equity Commission for distribution to families and community groups.

Remarks in support emphasized the county's commitment to inclusion and to confronting hate. Commissioner Stephen Valentine said, in part, "…this family is still in pain…and to the larger Muslim American community, that we love and embrace you and that love will always trump hate." Commissioners also encouraged public participation in memorial events scheduled by community groups.