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Gloucester Township proclaims Black History Month and honors local residents at recognition ceremony
Summary
At its Feb. 23 meeting the council proclaimed Feb. 1202628 02/28/2026 as Black History Month and presented awards to community members including educators, faith leaders and youth recognized for service, mentoring and achievement.
Gloucester Township read a Black History Month proclamation at its Feb. 23 meeting, marking the centennial of the observance that began with Dr. Carter G. Woodson27s early work and urging residents to participate in local festivities and educational programs.
The proclamation, read as part of the opening program, named Mayor David R. Mayer and Council President Orlando Mercado as signatories and invited residents to celebrate the contributions of African Americans to the township and the nation.
The council then presented awards honoring several community members for civic and educational service. Among those recognized: - Joseph Wood Lehi (presented as "Mister Joe"), praised for decades of volunteer work with Glen Landing/Long Landing Middle School, for work with the New Jersey State Division of Mental Health and for food-and-clothing pantry service. A presenter noted his longstanding commitment and said the township was "very lucky to have you." (presentation segments read into the record.) - Pastor Dorel Robinson, recognized for founding The Way Church and for community mentoring and outreach, including participation in the township27s 2020 peace walk. - Kalen Grant, honored for youth sports coaching and his Top Notch Sports and Fitness work with local youth teams. - Jaden Yeboah and Christina Abelarin, among other student and youth honorees recognized for leadership, academic achievement and community service.
Recipients offered brief remarks of thanks. One awardee said, "I just wanna say thank you all for this award," and others described family and community support as central to their work. Council members and staff thanked recipients and noted pride in the range of ages represented, from young athletes and students to long-serving community volunteers.
Why it matters The proclamation and awards were part of the council27s observance of Black History Month and served to highlight local educators, faith leaders and youth who contribute to civic life, mentoring and public-service programs in Gloucester Township.
Next steps The council encouraged residents to participate in local Black History Month activities and announced ongoing nomination windows for Women27s History Month recognitions in March.
