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Lancaster County proclaims Black History Month centennial; community leaders and commissioners offer remarks
Summary
County commissioners adopted a proclamation recognizing the 100th anniversary of Black History Month and heard remarks from local civil-rights and community leaders; Commissioners Joshua Parsons and Alice Yoder each addressed the proclamation and its local significance.
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners on March 11 issued a proclamation recognizing February 2026 as the centennial of Black History Month, noting local historical contributions including the Christiana Riot and longstanding community leaders who preserved African-American history in the county.
Community representatives including Blanding Watson (NAACP, president), Rev. Roland Forbes, Nelson Polite Jr., Josh Huter (Crispus Attucks Community Center director), and Sandra Brown offered remarks in support of the proclamation. Commissioner Joshua G. Parsons said, “As one who loves American history and the history of Lancaster County, I am glad to help issue proclamations that mark significant events, memorialize important history, and bring us together as a community and nation.”
Commissioner Alice Yoder framed the proclamation as an ongoing commitment, saying the county must “intentionally, honor[] and carry forward the history and contributions of African Americans,” and noted recent local celebrations and awards that highlighted sustained community leadership. Chair Ray D’Agostino thanked the attendees and echoed colleagues’ sentiments.
The proclamation text recorded in the minutes cites historic local contributions — including the underground railroad and the Christiana Riot — and lists prominent local Black citizens and organizations as part of Lancaster County’s heritage. The Board’s recognition is ceremonial; no formal policy change or new funding was adopted as part of the proclamation.
The meeting record shows the proclamation and remarks were introduced and accepted during the March 11 commissioners’ meeting; commissioners present included Ray D’Agostino (Chairman), Joshua G. Parsons (Vice‑Chairman), and Alice Yoder (Commissioner). The minutes indicate the public and community leaders were thanked for their remarks at the meeting.
