John,

As we celebrate Black History Month this February, I’m recognizing prominent Black Virginians who’ve made a mark on our country and moved our nation forward.

Born enslaved in Virginia, Booker T. Washington rose to become a prominent educator, thinker, and political leader. When he was just nine years old, Washington and his family in Virginia gained freedom under the Emancipation Proclamation.

He went on to become the founder and first leader of the Tuskegee Institute, a school devoted to the mission of Black higher education. Throughout his life, he advocated for increased educational opportunities and economic advancement for Black Americans at a time when much of society was pushing back against this goal. His perseverance and his belief in progress were influential in garnering support from politicians and philanthropists for increased funding for Black education here in America.

Black History Month is a time to uplift leaders like Booker T. Washington and also remember the stories of those who came before him. Throughout this month, I will continue to share more stories of those who are a part of our Commonwealth’s shared story and our country’s history.

Sincerely,
Abigail