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New Milford proclaims Black History Month and acknowledges discovered African‑American burying ground
Summary
At a mayor-and-council work session the borough proclaimed February 2026 Black History Month and noted the discovery of an African‑American burying ground believed to predate 1884; the mayor called for recognition and continued efforts toward equity and racial justice.
At a work session meeting, the New Milford mayor and council proclaimed February 2026 as Black History Month and publicly acknowledged the discovery of an African‑American burying ground in the borough that officials said likely predates 1884.
"Now therefore, I, Mayor Michael Batrino, mayor of the borough of Milford, proclaim February 2026 to be Black History Month and encourage all residents and businesses to celebrate our diverse heritage and culture and continue efforts to create a world that is more just and more peaceful," the mayor read from the proclamation.
The proclamation summarized the history of Black History Month and called on the community to honor contributions of Black Americans while recognizing past injustices. The mayor also referred specifically to the recently discovered African‑American burying ground, describing it as a burial site that "is believed to date back well before 1884" and saying the borough supports recognition and acknowledgement of the site and the people buried there.
Council discussion around the proclamation focused on recognition and commemoration; no formal action beyond the proclamation was recorded. The proclamation text said the borough is committed to advancing equity and racial justice and encouraged residents and businesses to observe the month.
The council did not outline immediate next steps for the burying ground in the recorded meeting; the proclamation itself serves as an official acknowledgment presented at the public session.
