In Honor of Black History Month
Celebration to Recognize Great Achievements of African Americans
SPRINGFIELD — Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs today hosted a celebration to commemorate Black History Month and honor leaders in the African American community.
The event, held at the Office of the Illinois State Treasurer in the Marine Bank Building at 1 East Old State Capitol Plaza, was an opportunity to reflect on the great achievements of Black leaders. The honorees included a dentist, a mentor and service- provider to young people, a retired pastor, a high school principal, two members of the Illinois Senate, a trades and labor advocate, a youth sports advocate, and an artist and art gallery owner.
“It is important that we acknowledge the great achievements and contributions of African Americans every day, not only during the month of February,” Frerichs said. “These leaders are serving others, making a difference in the lives of our youth, and fighting for a more equitable Illinois. We celebrate their dedication to making our communities a better place to live, work, and raise a family.” Black History Month is a national effort. In 1926, University of Chicago graduate, author and educator Carter G. Woodson created Negro History Week. In 1976, the annual celebration was expanded to a month.
Treasurer Frerichs honored the following individuals for their outstanding commitment to the community:
Outstanding Service in Business Dr. Jaya Nelson Dentist | Danville Family Dental Care Danville Outstanding Service in Leadership Samuel P. Banks CEO and Executive Director | Don Moyer Boys and Girls Club Champaign
Outstanding Commitment in Education Eric Alan Thomas Principal | Knoxville Center for Student Success Peoria Outstanding Commitment in Community Service Bishop King James Underwood Founder and Retired Pastor | New Free Will Baptist Church Champaign Outstanding Commitment as an Elected Official* Honorable Mattie Hunter Illinois State Senator and Assistant Majority Leader | 3rd District *Chicago Black History Month Awardee Outstanding Commitment as an Elected Official Honorable Christopher Belt Illinois State Senator | 57th District East St. Louis Outstanding Achievement in Workforce and Labor Lamarcus Williams President | Decatur Trades and Labor Assembly Decatur Outstanding Achievement in Sportsmanship Justin Lorenzo Dentmon Founder and Owner | Justin Dentmon Athletic Center Carbondale Outstanding Achievement in Arts and Humanities Jonathon Romain Artist and Owner | Romain Arts and Culture Center Peoria Earlier this month, Frerichs held a Black History Month celebration in Chicago honoring northern Illinois Black leaders.