Title
Honoring the African American Children's Book Project on Occasion of the 26th Annual African American Children's Book Fair and the February 3rd Kick Off of the National Literacy Initiative's Preserve a Legacy, Buy a Book Program.
Body
WHEREAS, In 1926, noted historian Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the study of negro life and history announced the second week of February to be "Negro History Week"; and
WHEREAS, The 2nd week in February was chosen because of the birthdays of President Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass; and
WHEREAS, During early American history, African Americans were not allowed to learn to read and have books; in some states the penalty for this infraction was death; and
WHEREAS, The importance of book fairs cannot be understated and for twenty-six years the African American Children's Book Fair has enhanced multi-culturalism in our City utilizing the joy of reading as a tool; and
WHEREAS, Vanesse Lloyd Sgambati the founder/CEO of The African American Children's Book Project created the book fair because she saw a void in the community and understood that all children should have access to books that reflect their images. She believes that books open up a world of opportunities for all children and after twenty-six years, the African American Children's Book Fair is the oldest and largest single day event for African American children's books in the country. As a literary consultant she is a much sought after expert on trends in diverse books and how to incorporate these books into homes, schools and libraries; and
WHEREAS, One of the most important reasons to encourage reading in our children is that studies show that the more our youth read the more likely they are to make positive lifestyle decisions as they grow older. Literacy also makes our youth more productive global citizens; and
WHEREAS, Strictly judging by attendance the Fair is a tremendous success as well over 3,500 people attend...
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