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Thurston County proclaims February 2026 Black History Month; local leaders urge action beyond symbolism
Summary
The Thurston County Board of County Commissioners on Feb. 17 adopted a proclamation recognizing Black History Month. Community leaders from the South Sound YMCA and local nonprofits urged the county to embed equity into programs and highlighted regional events, including a Juneteenth celebration and community performances.
Thurston County commissioners on Feb. 17 adopted a proclamation designating February 2026 as Black History Month and recessed for a brief photo reception with community guests. The proclamation, read aloud at the start of the meeting, references the historical contributions and ongoing resilience of African Americans and calls on residents to engage in events and reflections that honor that legacy.
Ellen Massey, a county management analyst, introduced several community speakers who said such recognition should lead to tangible support for leadership development and community programs. Kyisha Likely, executive director of community engagement for the South Sound YMCA, described regional efforts to cultivate Black leadership and invoked a personal account of opportunity and resilience, saying, “Black history is resilience.” Michelle Gibson, senior director at the South Sound YMCA, called the proclamation more than symbolic and said it should reinforce the county’s work to make programs and services welcoming and inclusive for Black and brown young people.
Other speakers highlighted local work and events tied to the recognition. Shauna Hawk, founder of the Women of Color in Leadership Movement, invited commissioners to the Juneteenth celebration planned for June 20 and described efforts to rename a downtown park for Rebecca Howard, a Black businesswoman from the 1800s. Donnie Whetstone, owner of Whetstone Fitness, shared a multigenerational family story and urged support for Black-owned businesses, saying the entire community benefits from that success.
The proclamation itself notes historical injustices and commends Black entrepreneurs for strengthening local economies. County staff and several commissioners acknowledged the county’s partnerships with local organizations; the board recessed so guests and commissioners could gather for photos and refreshments in the lobby.
The board is expected to continue related conversations in future work sessions and community meetings.
