Happy Black History Month, friend! This month is dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the countless contributions Black Americans have made to our country in so many ways including, among other things, the arts, science, technology, and social and economic justice movements across the nation.

Black history is American history. Today, and every day, we honor those who took action before us in the fight for racial equality and for a more just nation. It is because of their dedication and commitment that we are able to carry the torch of equality, justice, and opportunity for years to come.

I've been proud to work with some trailblazing leaders. Leaders like my friend Rosa Franklin, the first Black woman to serve as a Washington State senator. Leaders like the extraordinary John Lewis who we lost last year but who reminded us of the importance of getting in "good trouble."

This year alone, we've seen incredible history-making moments. Georgia elected its first Black U.S. senator, Reverend Raphael Warnock. Vice President Kamala Harris became the first Black woman to be sworn in as Vice President. We watched in awe as young poet laureate Amanda Gorman addressed the nation and the world. And, closer to home, I remember Harold Moss, who was Tacoma's first Black mayor and member of city council, and Pierce County's first Black councilmember. Or more recently, my friend T'wina Nobles, who is now making history every day as a leader in the Washington State Senate.

While Black Americans stand behind the movements that helped shape our nation, they have also shouldered some of the worst injustices. It's on all of us to not only learn the full, often difficult history of our country, but also commit to undoing centuries of systemic racism that still harms communities today.

I'm working to address the injustices deeply entrenched in our own democracy. We can expand access to the ballot box, root out injustice in our policing system, hold corrupt leaders accountable, pass legislation that will make health care more affordable, and protect vulnerable communities from climate injustice.

This Black History Month, I hope you'll join me in acknowledging the Black men and women who blazed such important trails and in recommitting to the fight for racial justice by adding your name.

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It's an honor to represent you,

Derek

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People for Derek Kilmer
PO Box 1381
Tacoma WA 98402 United States

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