Essex County honors community leaders at Black History celebration

Essex County commissioners convened a Black History Month celebration at the Essex County Chambers in Newark, where the board presented commendations to community leaders and volunteers and invited the public to a reception and photos.

Vice President Mary Thomas opened the program and called on the audience to celebrate the honorees, saying the evening was an opportunity to “pay honor to those who labor in the vineyard” and recognize work done for the county. The program included an invocation by Reverend Dursell Williams and musical performances by Cynthia Tucker, who sang the Black national anthem, “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”

Commissioner Cooper introduced the first honoree, Reverend Thurcel Williams, outlining Williams’ ministry, teaching credentials and work addressing domestic violence. Reverend Williams accepted the commendation and invoked the legacy of civil-rights leaders, calling on the audience to maintain hope. “The late Jesse Jackson said, ‘keep hope alive,’ ” he told attendees.

Commissioner Bridal Gill presented honorees Christy Crawford and Veronica Harris, citing their education and community-service work in Montclair and Essex County. Crawford credited mentors and partners and said she could not accept the honor alone; Harris thanked family and described caregiving responsibilities while continuing community service.

A county official introduced Kameed Charles, noting his long record of civic engagement and his work in the registrar’s office; Charles thanked commissioners, his family and his employer and reflected on Newark’s resilience. The board also honored Corey Anderson for neighborhood organizing, annual community events and long-term volunteer work; Anderson said the award “does not belong to me alone” and pledged to continue serving.

Throughout the program, commissioners acknowledged elected officials, county staff and local nonprofit partners and announced a small donation of books about Black banking history for distribution. The ceremony concluded with a benediction from Mary Thomas and an invitation for honorees and guests to gather for photos and a reception.

No formal votes or policy actions were taken during the event.