The Black History event was originally scheduled for Feb. 10 – during Black History Month – but was postponed due to inclement weather.

Harrisburg - Today, nine state agencies reflected on “The History of Black Economic Empowerment,” the national theme for the Black History Month celebration, which was held at the Forum Auditorium in Harrisburg. The theme recognizes the many success stories of black entrepreneurs and commemorates the 100th Anniversary of the National Urban League. 

“We are thrilled to come together to educate students and colleagues regarding the rich heritage and culture of the African-American community and the contributions of that community to American history,” said Cheryl Walker Davis, coordinator of the Multi-Agency Black History Month Committee and director, Office of Special Assistants for the Public Utility Commission. 

The program featured the Stuart Sisters from Philadelphia who performed a theatrical journey of drama, dance, and song that chronicled African-American history and economic successes. The Imani Edu-Tainers African Dance Company from Lancaster also performed. Pre-program entertainment included the Central Dauphin East Youth Steppers and singers Desiree Wright and Tamekia Woods. 

State employees and approximately 700 local students from Swatara Middle School, Rowland School, Marshall School, Central Dauphin East High School, Steelton Highspire High School, and Gettysburg College joined the celebration.

The event was co-sponsored by the Governor’s Advisory Commission on African American Affairs, the Public Utility Commission, the Historical and Museum Commission, and the departments of Aging, Banking, General Services, Revenue, State, and Community and Economic Development. The U.S. Census Bureau provided support for the program and had informational booths promoting participation in the 2010 Census.

To learn more about these agencies and the 2010 Census, visit www.pa.gov.

The Black History event was originally scheduled for Feb. 10 – during Black History Month – but was postponed due to inclement weather.