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San Diego council proclaims Black History Month and Lunar New Year; community leaders and artists speak at a packed chambers
Summary
Councilmembers unanimously approved proclamations marking Black History Month, Lunar New Year and National Engineers Week after a series of public comments and a spoken‑word performance; councilmembers praised local community groups and youth programs.
The San Diego City Council on Feb. 10 unanimously approved proclamations recognizing February as Black History Month, the Lunar New Year (Year of the Horse) and National Engineers Week, following a series of in‑chamber and remote public comments and a spoken‑word presentation.
Councilmember Henry Foster moved the proclamation items and Council President Pro Tem Lee seconded; the motion passed as recorded by the clerk. Council and staff said the proclamations are intended to honor the contributions of Black and Asian American communities and to highlight civic and technical contributions across the city.
Speakers representing community organizations emphasized the local significance of the observances. Joshua Dunn said he was "honored to speak today on behalf of County Supervisor Monica Montgomery Stepp in support of this Black History Month proclamation," and Samuel Merrill, vice chair of the San Diego Bay Park Foundation, urged that recognition of Black history be more than a commemoration, calling it "a reminder of our shared responsibility to continue building a San Diego where opportunity is accessible." A spoken‑word performance by Diamond Brandon drew sustained praise from councilmembers and attendees.
Councilmembers used the moment to call attention to civic inclusion and cultural programs. Councilmember Elo Rivera highlighted the Association for the Study of African American Life and History and said "Black history is American history"; Council President Pro Tem Lee encouraged residents to support Lunar New Year events across neighborhoods from City Heights to downtown.
The council paused for a roll‑call vote and photo opportunities after approving the proclamations; the clerk recorded the vote as passing unanimously with the listed absences. The council then moved on to consent items and other business.
Copies of proclamations and links to community events were posted on the city's online agenda materials.
