FRANKFORT, Ky. — Taking a moment to reflect on one aspect of American history, legislative leaders and community members celebrated Black History Month on Thursday at the Kentucky State Capitol.
“We join with those that uplift and acknowledge our history for it is clear, that if we ignore history, we miss the opportunity to learn what has happened and how to address its decencies going forward,” said State Rep. George Brown Jr., D-Lexington.
The Black Legislative Caucus, whose members cross both parties and chambers, hosted the annual event. The celebration focused on learning from the past and facing the future.
“As public servants, we’re called to lead by example, not just to represent those who agree with us, but engage meaningfully with those with different perspectives,” said Senate Majority Floor Leader Max Wise, R-Campbellsville. “In those moments, when we truly listen and we learn from one another, we grow and find better ways to serve … pursuing progress is rarely easy, but it’s always worthwhile and attainable.”
Leaders from the legislature, Kentucky Supreme Court and the executive branch took part this year. In his remarks, Gov. Andy Beshear, D-Ky., rebuked President Donald Trump’s insinuation that diversity, equity and inclusion practices played a part in last month’s midair collision in Washington, D.C.
“That is not leadership,” Beshear said. “And when so many have lost everything, I’ve governed after moments of incredible loss. Our goal is to be there for our families, not to play politics, and not to try to blame something on something that has absolutely nothing to do with.”
Beshear also called diversity an asset, saying every single Kentuckian is important to the state’s success.
To date, there have been 37 African American lawmakers, past and present, in the Kentucky General Assembly.
