Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Community Recognition topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Pismo Beach proclaims February 2026 Black History Month; NAACP representative accepts proclamation
Summary
The Pismo Beach City Council issued a proclamation recognizing February 2026 as Black History Month. Barry Stokes of the San Luis Obispo County NAACP accepted the proclamation; a local resident, Shelby Bowen, followed with an emotional public comment about historical harms.
The Pismo Beach City Council on Feb. 17 issued a proclamation designating February 2026 as Black History Month and urged residents and organizations to honor the contributions of Black Americans.
Barry Stokes, identified in the meeting as representing the San Luis Obispo County NAACP branch, accepted the proclamation and told the council that "Black history is American history," noting the centennial of formally recognizing African American achievements.
Shelby Bowen, who introduced herself as a local resident and a former Air Force captain, addressed Stokes directly in a brief public comment that described historical mistreatment of Black people and expressed a strong emotional reaction. Bowen said, in part, "Because I know what we did to you, brother... As a white community, for you to stand here in front of a white community...is that the truth?"
Council members thanked both speakers and moved on to the next agenda item. The proclamation text read by staff reaffirmed the city's commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion and encouraged residents to participate in events recognizing Black heritage.
