Assemblyman Phil Ramos (D-Islip) announced he will be hosting his annual Black History Month event. Assemblyman Ramos holds the event annually in recognition of the contributions made by African-Americans throughout history. This year’s event will be the 6th annual and will be highlighted by keynote speaker Assemblymember Charles Barron who will offer a presentation titled “We Fought Back.”

“Since February 1976, we have celebrated Black History Month to honor those who tirelessly fought for freedom in the face of racial hatred and violence. We reflect on those individuals who gave their lives in the struggle for justice while also celebrating the countless contributions that led to systemic changes throughout our nation,” Assemblyman Ramos said. “Although we focus on selfless leaders of the past, the recent political climate has shown us that ignorance and hate is still present today. We must not allow the divisiveness of one election cycle to erase the progress we’ve made; we must remain focused toward equality for all.”

We designate the month of February as Black History Month, recognizing the breakthroughs of influential people of color such as Harriet Tubman, who led slaves to freedom using the Underground Railroad, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., who fought against racial intolerance and segregation, and President Barak Obama, who became the first African-American man to be elected President of the United States. The courage and determination they and other influential figures showed in the face of racial discrimination and violence is truly an inspiration for future generations.

“We have a history beyond slavery and that is a history of courageous resistance and revolutions,” Assemblymember Charles Barron said.

History often portrays people of color as victims and not necessarily patriots. This presentation details the role of Freedom Fighters as patriots who fought for a better America.

The event will be held on Monday evening, February 27, 2017, from 6:30 to 8:30 at Suffolk Community College (Grant Campus, The Health, Sports & Education Center #D105, Crooked Hill Road) in Brentwood.