Trump Recognizes Tubman, Sowell, and Thomas in Black History Month Proclamation

February 1, 2025 TruthUSA

“Throughout our history, black Americans have been among our country’s most significant leaders,” Trump stated.

On January 31, President Donald Trump proclaimed February as Black History Month, acknowledging the impactful contributions of “black American patriots who have left an enduring mark on our Nation’s history.”

“Throughout our history, black Americans have been among our country’s most significant leaders, profoundly influencing the cultural and political trajectory of our nation,” Trump remarked in his proclamation.

The proclamation highlighted the contributions of figures like abolitionist Frederick Douglass, social activist Harriet Tubman, economist Thomas Sowell, and Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, referring to them as “American heroes” who have “significantly advanced the tradition of equality under the law in our great country.” Trump noted that these leaders continue to serve as an inspiration to all Americans.

Dedicating recognition to the successes of professional golfer Tiger Woods, Trump described him as one of the “American greats” who have “pushed the limits of excellence in their fields” and opened doors for others.

The president expressed his “immense gratitude” to black Americans for “all they have contributed to bring us to this moment” and for any future contributions they will make as the nation moves “into a future of boundless possibility” under his leadership.

All Americans, including public officials, educators, and librarians, were encouraged to observe this month “with suitable programs, ceremonies, and activities,” as stated in the proclamation, with no further details provided.

The White House issued this proclamation on the same day that the Defense Department announced that they will no longer use official resources for celebrations or events related to “cultural awareness months,” which include Black History Month, Women’s History Month, Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, National Hispanic Heritage Month, National Disability Employment Awareness Month, and National American Indian Heritage Month.

The Pentagon clarified that service members are permitted to attend such events informally outside of duty hours, while installations and offices are also encouraged to celebrate the accomplishments of military heroes of all races and genders.

“We take pride in our warriors and their history, but we will focus on the character of their service rather than their immutable characteristics,” the department noted in a January 31 statement.

The roots of Black History Month go back to 1926, when historian Carter G. Woodson established the first Negro History Week to educate the public about African American history. He chose February to coincide with the birthdays of Douglass and former President Abraham Lincoln, both viewed as symbols of freedom. Woodson also founded the Association for the Study of African American Life and History in 1915, which sets the annual theme for the observance.

This initiative later achieved broader recognition, with President Gerald Ford being the first to issue a message in 1976 acknowledging Black History Month to celebrate the contributions of black Americans.

When asked by reporters on January 29, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt indicated that the Trump administration intends to continue honoring Black History Month.

“As far as I know, this White House definitely intends to recognize and celebrate American history and the contributions that all Americans, irrespective of race, religion, or creed, have made to our great country,” Leavitt told the press.

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